At least 35 pupils have been rushed to hospital after they sustained injuries after a Fuso truck Registration Number UAP 653B they were travelling in overturned metres off Kampala-Masaka Highway on Friday.

The 35 were part of the cohort of 85 learners from St Andrews Primary School in Mitete, Sembabule District travelling to West Buganda Diocese headquarters to take part in the music, dance and drama competitions organized by the diocese.

The truck overturned at Kako Hill. Some teachers and the Fuso driver escaped unhurt.

The injured have been rushed to Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, some in critical condition.

Some parents have since transferred their children to private hospitals.

“The driver was driving recklessly. We even told him to control his speed as pupils shouted,” said Deborah Kalanzi, one of the teachers who were travelling with the pupils.

Southern regional police spokesperson Lameck Kigozi said the school administrators would be penalised.

“We are going to arrest the head teacher of the school and place charges of using unauthorized vehicle to carry passengers. We have always warned schools against using trucks to transport pupils but many have continued to do so.”