Transport operators have opposed the government’s decision to suspend all school educational trips following a series of fatal road accidents involving learners across the country.
The Ministry of Education and Sports on Friday announced the immediate suspension of all school tours after Thursday’s tragic bus crash in Kapchorwa District, which claimed the lives of more than 20 learners from King David Junior School, Ndejje.
However, speaking to Radio Sapientia FM in Kampala, Muhammad Ssempijja, a driver and leader at Namayiba Taxi Park, criticized the decision, arguing that it was not made in the best interest of learners.
Ssempijja said educational tours play a vital role in helping students acquire practical knowledge that complements classroom learning and contributes to better performance in examinations.
Rather than suspending the trips altogether, he urged the government and schools to strengthen safety measures by hiring licensed bus companies with experienced and qualified drivers.
According to Ssempijja, stricter enforcement of transport safety standards and proper regulation of school travel would be a more effective way to prevent future accidents while allowing learners to continue benefiting from educational excursions.
By Charles Katabalwa
17th July 2026
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