Transport consultant Cecil Garbrah suggested that Ghana should consider lowering the legal driving age from 18 to 16.
While acknowledging the current laws, he argued that today’s 16-year-olds are more mature and capable than previous generations and should be allowed to obtain a driving license earlier.
Citing the evolving intelligence and physical capabilities of teenagers on Joy News' PM Express, Mr Garbrah stated, “We need to look at the age limit of 18. We need to look at it and then bring it to 16.”
He explained that many countries around the world allow individuals as young as 16 to drive and suggested that Ghana follow suit.
Mr Garbrah pointed out that the current law, which was implemented in 1996, may be outdated, as today’s youth are more capable of handling the responsibilities of driving: “The lactogen babies are no more lactogen babies.
"I mean, you talk to a 16-year-old, and then you have a chat with him, and some of the things that he knows you don’t know.”
Mr Garbrah’s position is rooted in the idea that driving requires intelligence and responsibility, which he believes many 16-year-olds possess today.
He recounted his experiences as a driving school instructor, where he could easily assess individuals’ readiness for the road: “We need intelligence to drive. It is not anybody who can drive.”
He believes that if teenagers can demonstrate maturity and capability, they should be allowed to drive.
Despite his advocacy, Garbrah made it clear that the current law still stands. “At this very moment, it says 18,” he admitted.
However, he called for a serious review of this regulation, especially in light of recent incidents involving younger drivers.
He cited the recent case of a 16-year-old involved in an accident, questioning whether the individual was truly prepared to handle the complexities of driving.
Latest Stories
-
COCOBOD now under Finance Ministry’s oversight – Ato Forson
7 minutes -
Sudan’s war: Violations and repercussions
7 minutes -
‘Even though I am NPP, monies for the National Cathedral must be investigated’ – Dr Amoah
17 minutes -
We urgently need victories to make 2026 World Cup – Otto Addo
18 minutes -
Mahama’s lean government spending extra billions is simply to create ‘loot and chop’ – Ntim Fordjour
20 minutes -
Ghana needs $800m in fuel to sustain thermal power generation – Energy and Green Transition Minister
22 minutes -
Don’t remove Dampare – Musa Dankwa advises Mahama
27 minutes -
Bawku conflict: Gunmen kill level 400 student in Gambaga
47 minutes -
Nursing trainees applaud the gov’ts decision to maintain trainee allowance policy
1 hour -
Obeng Empire Limited awarded for being the ‘best in ethical service and client relationship’
1 hour -
Government’s budget on education promising — Eduwatch Africa
2 hours -
Joselyn Dumas not appointed to any position – Felix Kwakye Ofosu clarifies
2 hours -
NUGS celebrates GETFund uncapping, calls for sustainable funding for free SHS
2 hours -
Today’s Front pages: Thursday, March 13, 2025
2 hours -
Mahama receives five new envoys
3 hours