DVLA to conduct exams in local dialects

From later this year, driving licence applicants who cannot read or write the English language will be allowed to write the mandatory computer-based test (CBT) in their local languages, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has revealed.

Through the help of a consultant, the DVLA said it had developed a software to facilitate the translation of the test into six local languages — Ga, Ewe, Twi, Hausa, Dagbani and Nzema.

The CBT is a standardised examination written by all persons applying for a driving licence at the DVLA, and it is a key requirement in the application process.

The acting Director of Finance at the DVLA, Mr Andrews Denteh, disclosed this in an interview at the 10th Marketing World Awards (MWA) in Accra last Friday.

The MWA was instituted to reward brands and individuals that work “tirelessly and passionately” to improve their product value, customer experience and contribute to the growth of their respective industries.

The DVLA clinched the Best State Owned Enterprise in Customer Experience Award.

Other organisations that were honoured were Zoomlion, MTN, Fidelity Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and FanMilk.

License acquisition

Mr Denteh said the authority had observed that the CBT was a major barrier for persons who could not read or write in English, irrespective of their ability to drive.

“We realised that there was a problem with people who were eager to drive but because of the English language they could not have access to the facility. So we decided to actually introduce programmes, and as such we engaged consultants who have provided us with software. So the examination will now be done in local languages,” he said.

“I believe the English language shouldn’t be a barrier for somebody who has the ability to drive. When this programme comes on, people can take this exam in their local dialects, and it will be a very positive way in helping to improve the standard of drivers in the country,” he added.

Customer experience

Mr Denteh indicated that as part of measures to improve customer experience, the authority was continuously exploring better ways of delivering its services through the use of modern technology.

He said the DVLA was in the process of digitising all of its documents as part of sweeping measures to upgrade its systems, enhance security and improve revenue mobilisation.

He said the digitisation process would be completed by next year, adding that the data would be shared with the various security agencies to assist in crime investigations.

“We are working to make sure that all our documents are digitised so that we can share it with the security agencies so that it will help us to clamp down on people who use vehicles to commit crimes, and it is difficult to track them,” he said.

Reacting to the award, Mr Denteh said the achievement “confirms the positive transformation that has taken place at the DVLA”.