Education Minister Chan Chun Sing addressed concerns over alleged bullying incidents in Singapore schools, emphasizing the Ministry of Education's stance against threats and the importance of responsible online behavior. He warned against 'social media vigilante actions' that could complicate situations and hinder rehabilitation efforts.
Education Minister Chan Chun Sing addressed concerns regarding alleged school bullying incidents, emphasizing the Ministry of Education 's unwavering stance against threats directed towards staff or students.
In a parliamentary response to Non-Constituency MP Hazel Poa's inquiries about two incidents at Admiralty Secondary School that gained online attention in January, Chan stressed that bullying is unacceptable and that MOE actively monitors bullying cases both online and offline, within and outside school premises. While physical bullying cases remain relatively manageable, Chan expressed concern over the rise of associated issues amplified by social media. He warned that the virality of online posts has heightened sensitivities and fostered 'social media vigilante actions', potentially normalizing extreme behavior and hindering rehabilitation efforts. Chan cautioned that the unhelpful involvement of even a minority of adults can complicate situations and exacerbate the challenges faced by educators in guiding students. He pointed out that individuals may react impulsively or emotionally to such incidents, and the court of public opinion often lacks a complete understanding of the matter. The minister expressed particular concern when adults resort to social media threats or physically appear at schools, demanding action on behalf of their children or even threatening other students. 'This is wrong,' Chan asserted, stating that MOE will not tolerate such actions and will take decisive measures to safeguard the well-being of both staff and students while working to counsel and discipline any students involved in bullying. Chan also highlighted the online harassment faced by school leaders and the unfair representation of institutions during recent incidents, noting that the efforts of educators to support affected students were often disregarded. He emphasized the importance of responsible online behavior, urging against mimicking bullying tactics online or offline. Threatening, doxxing, and disrespecting other children and teachers, he argued, would not improve the situation and could divert teachers' time and resources from their primary duties. Furthermore, shielding children from the consequences of their actions could teach them the wrong lessons. Chan concluded by calling for collective responsibility, encouraging parents and the public to work with teachers as positive role models and respond to situations in helpful and kind ways. Finally, Chan addressed the alleged bullying and assault cases at Admiralty Secondary School. He acknowledged a Facebook post by a former student's mother claiming that bullying contributed to the 15-year-old's depression and subsequent suicide in 2023. While MOE typically respects families' privacy and refrains from disclosing details about such incidents, Chan assured the parliamentary house that the school had gone above and beyond in supporting the student during her emotional struggles. Regarding an alleged assault incident on January 7, where a Sec 1 student reportedly hit a classmate with a plastic bottle, Chan stated that initial investigations revealed a student altercation. The student who initiated the assault has been suspended and faces further disciplinary action upon his return. The school has maintained communication with the victim's parents, providing learning support and monitoring the child's well-being. Chan emphasized the school's commitment to restorative justice, aiming to facilitate the healing and reconciliation between the two students when they both return to school. The objective, he stated, is to help students learn and grow from these experiences
Bullying School Safety Social Media Education Ministry Singapore School Violence Restorative Justice
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