Pretoria — President Jacob Zuma has sent his condolences to his counterpart, President Mohamed Morsi, the government and people of Egypt, following the school bus tragedy that claimed 50 lives - mostly children - and injuring many others.

"I was deeply shocked to learn about the tragic accident that took place in Southern Egypt on Saturday when a school bus carrying approximately 60 children and a train collided.

"On behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, I would like to offer our sincere condolences and sympathies to the government and people of Egypt. Our hearts go out to the bereaved parents and families during this time of mourning," said Zuma.