GEORGE NEWS - As families gear up for the start of the 2026 academic year, many parents are already bracing themselves for the familiar rush of school day transport. For learners who rely on the Go George bus service, a little preparation now sets them up for a smooth return to routine.
A Go George Smart Card is essential for travelling on the system. Parents are encouraged to get cards sorted early, load enough trips before school starts, and keep an eye on balances throughout the term.
The Smart Card works just like cash: if it’s lost, the trips loaded onto it cannot be refunded or transferred, so it should be handled with care.
Smart Cards are available at kiosks located at the Transport Hub in Cradock Street, Blanco Triangle, Garden Route Mall, and Nelson Mandela Boulevard in Thembalethu. Two mobile kiosks will also rotate between Protea Road in Pacaltsdorp, New Dawn Park Primary School, the Eve bus stop in Rosedale, Cheap Foods in Nelson Mandela Boulevard near Parkdene, and the Jonga circle in Thembalethu.
For the exact location of a mobile kiosk at any given time, scroll down on https://www.gogeorge.org.za/fares-cards, or phone the Go George Call Centre on 0800 044 044.
School route maps and on the ground support
During the first few weeks of the term, Go George communication champions will be stationed at bus stops near high schools especially. They’ll be sharing details of school specific route maps and help learners understand the different travel options available to them.
Each school has its own customised map showing the best routes to and from school. These can also be downloaded from the Go George website at www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.
Learners on a Go George bus.
Digital tools to help learners plan
The Go George website offers interactive timetables and a stop explorer tool, making it easy for passengers to plan their own trips.
Passenger education on the use of the newly introduced Go George chat bot will also kick off later this month. The user-friendly GoBot offers quick answers and guidance online, in addition to the existing information resources.
Learners are encouraged to chat with the champions about the best boarding times, routes and transfer points. In many cases, there are alternative options that help avoid the busiest peak time buses.
To stay on top of urgent alerts that affect the bus service, learners and parents are invited to subscribe to the Go George WhatsApp channel.
Go George welcomes opportunities to speak directly with learners and staff. Schools can request an on site visit by calling 0800 044 044 or emailing info@gogeorge.org.za.
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