The Mpumalanga Department of Education says it is in shock following a horrific crash between a bus, ferrying learners of the Morélig Primary School, and a train, at Mafube Village outside Middelburg.

The Department says six learners have died, and several others have been seriously injured. Five learners died on the scene, while the sixth victim died in hospital.

An investigation is underway into the cause of the crash. Earlier reports suggest the bus driver tried to cross the railway (the R104 Level Crossing in Middelburg) when the train was already too close. The driver sustained slight injuries.

MEC Cathy Dlamini has conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased.

The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, and MEC Dlamini will visit the school and the affected families today.

The crash comes hardly a month after 11 pupils were killed in Carltonville, Gauteng.

A white bakkie crashed into the back of the mini-bus taxi that was transporting the learners, causing it to roll and subsequently catch fire.