MOE Advises Schools to Consider Bus Fare Hikes Amid Fuel Cost Surge
The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore has advised schools to reasonably consider requests from transport operators to increase bus fares for off-site activities. This recommendation comes in response to sudden and unforeseen spikes in fuel prices driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which began on February 28. The MOE noted that many transport contracts were bid on before the conflict, meaning operators could not have accounted for these significant cost increases. Allowing fare adjustments aims to ensure the continuity of on-demand bus services for learning journeys and competitions, preventing adverse effects on student activities. While the government is providing temporary support covering 13 percent of fare revenue for regular school bus services from April to June, this measure does not fully cover off-site activity transport. The ministry stated it will continue to monitor market conditions and issue further advisories as needed. Transport operators have welcomed the co-funding but suggest longer-term solutions, such as road tax waivers, may be necessary if high fuel prices persist beyond the support period.
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MOE Advises Schools to Consider Bus Fare Hikes Amid Fuel Cost Surge
The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Singapore has advised schools to reasonably consider requests from transport operators to increase bus fares for off-site activities. This recommendation comes in response to sudden and unforeseen spikes in fuel prices driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which began on February 28. The MOE noted that many transport contracts were bid on before the conflict, meaning operators could not have accounted for these significant cost increases. Allowing fare adjustments aims to ensure the continuity of on-demand bus services for learning journeys and competitions, preventing adverse effects on student activities. While the government is providing temporary support covering 13 percent of fare revenue for regular school bus services from April to June, this measure does not fully cover off-site activity transport. The ministry stated it will continue to monitor market conditions and issue further advisories as needed. Transport operators have welcomed the co-funding but suggest longer-term solutions, such as road tax waivers, may be necessary if high fuel prices persist beyond the support period.
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