Hundreds sit for driving tests

RWAMAGANA - Hundreds of people yesterday gathered in Rwamagana town, to sit for driving permit exams. Over 600 candidates went for the practical test, while 1000 took the theory one. The candidates were however, not happy with the environment in which they did the theory test. “It is a test done in a very unfriendly environment when one is seated on the ground. You need to sit comfortably to think and answer questions. The way we do these theories, must be changed to be user friendly,” one of the candidates complained. The theoretical tests were done in a play ground direct opposite to Rwamagana Police Station. The candidates sat on the ground and wrote their exams on their laps. “It is not proper for us to sit on the ground while doing exams, other options should be designed,” another candidate who had come from Kigali complained. This is not the first time the exams have been carried out this way, according to sources. “In April 2007 a driving permit theory test was messed up in the same play ground, when rain soaked the exam papers, candidates were using. It is high time this ended,” another candidate complained. The theory test further showed many candidates repeating a similar exam, an indication that they are not properly trained before sitting it. The examination officials said some candidates do not even pass through driving schools before doing the tests. “Driving schools these days must not only prepare students for a practical test, they also have to give every support in preparing them for the written theory test which must be taken first,” officials advised. According to authorities, every person wishing to own Rwanda driving license must first pass a written exam to prove how conversant he or she is about road safety laws. Thereafter, such a person is given a provisional driving license. And finally, a practical exam is done for the award of definitive driving license, authorities explained. Ends