One of the Richest Countries in the World Introduces Caning in Schools
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Singapore will introduce stricter disciplinary measures for bullying in schools, including caning for boys aged nine and older.
- The corporal punishment, limited to three strokes, requires principal approval and can only be administered by an authorized teacher, with consideration for the student's age and maturity.
- While corporal punishment is banned for girls, alternative measures like detention and suspension will be used; international organizations like UNICEF oppose such methods due to potential negative impacts on children.
Singapore, a nation known for its emphasis on discipline and order, is implementing new measures to combat rising levels of school bullying. The introduction of caning for boys as a disciplinary tool, alongside other measures for girls, reflects a firm stance against peer aggression, including cyberbullying.
There are strict protocols to ensure student safety. The punishment must be approved by the principal and can only be carried out by an authorized teacher.
This decision, following a year-long analysis of bullying incidents, aims to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The strict protocols, requiring principal approval and execution by authorized teachers, are designed to ensure student safety while administering the punishment. The consideration of a student's age and maturity underscores a nuanced approach, aiming for corrective impact rather than mere retribution.
The punishment will be applied only in the most severe cases and only after other measures have failed.
While international bodies like UNICEF and the WHO express concerns about the potential negative effects of corporal punishment on children's physical and mental health, Singapore's Ministry of Education maintains that these measures are reserved for the most severe cases and only after other disciplinary actions have failed. The historical context of corporal punishment in Singapore, dating back to British colonial times and still used in the judicial system for adult males, adds another layer to this debate. From a Singaporean perspective, these measures are seen as necessary tools to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment, upholding the values of discipline and accountability that are deeply ingrained in our society.
Schools will monitor the student's condition after the punishment and provide psychological assistance and support.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.