This is an outline of my views regarding the RYDA Programme from a 48 year Rotarian who has not only made all of our Youth related activities a prime focus but one who has been closely involved with this valuable Youth Driver Awareness Programme since its introduction to New Zealand.Interestingly although the fundamental core objectives have remained the same the continual development of RYDA to maintain best practice standards and improvements have been mind blowing and measurably more effective, from the feedback that I have obtained from attending over 30 days as a Rotarian Volunteer Steward and talking with many students over the time of this experience.
Rotary generally values this programme because it provides a professional platform of education for the most vulnerable and impressionable people early in their adventure with not only actual driving but also in being safe as a passenger and the responsibilities that are needed in either role.
The six interactive workshop sessions have developed into the most up to date programmes giving students critical information and strategies that do not come from driving lessons, books or the school classrooms.
We as an organisation are very proud of being a community partner with this wonderful programme and to have watched its growth from a well intended basic course to the current day . The formation of RSE as the facilitator has introduced the highest levels of professional and academic custodianship at board level, raising the bar to new heights and incorporating the very best of learning practice which results in the life saving messages of RYDA's workshops being incorporated into for example, Physics and English lessons back in the classroom.
Hopefully the contributions of all concerned will result in the ongoing protection of young lives-work.which reduces the call on health services, whilst ameliorating the devastating impact road trauma has on families. We Rotarians spend many thousands of hours in NZ assisting in a wide variety of roles at all levels of the community, with both time and money, but none can match the return on the investment that we receive from RYDA.
George