Singapore to cane boys for severe school bullying

In Singapore, our Ministry of Education is taking decisive action to combat school bullying, a persistent issue that affects the well-being of our students. The announcement that male students engaging in severe bullying may face caning, as a final disciplinary measure, underscores our commitment to creating a safe and respectful learning environment. This policy, carefully considered and announced by Minister Desmond Lee, is not taken lightly. It will only be applied in extreme cases, after all other interventions have failed, and will adhere to stringent protocols to ensure the student's safety and well-being.

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Schools will be able to use caning if all other measures prove insufficient.

We understand that corporal punishment can be a sensitive topic internationally. However, the context within our educational institutions is distinct. The aim is not merely punitive, but educational. This measure is designed to help young boys understand the profound gravity of their actions and their impact on others. Factors such as the student's maturity and whether the punishment will aid in learning from their mistakes will be carefully considered before any action is taken. This approach reflects Singapore's broader philosophy of maintaining order and discipline, which has contributed to our nation's success and high standards in education, as evidenced by our top rankings in PISA assessments.

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These sanctions will help children 'understand the gravity of their actions,' which 'has a positive impact on reducing bullying.'

While some international NGOs and activists may criticize the pressure within our highly demanding education system, we believe this new policy strikes a necessary balance. It acknowledges the potential negative consequences of corporal punishment, as seen in domestic settings, but differentiates the school environment. Our goal is to foster a culture of respect and responsibility, ensuring that our students, regardless of gender, learn the importance of empathy and ethical conduct. For girls, alternative disciplinary measures such as suspension will be employed, reflecting a tailored approach to discipline that prioritizes learning and behavioral correction.

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Educational institutions will take into account factors such as the student's maturity and whether corporal punishment will help them learn from their mistake.