Closer Monitoring of Schools to Minimise Fights among Students

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Education (Schools) following the recent fracas among students in a secondary school (a) whether the Ministry will consider installing CCTVs along school corridors and other areas for the staff to monitor the students' activities; (b) what is the psychological and social profile of these students; and (c) how can the Ministry minimise such incidents in schools.

Most students are well-behaved and are able to interact well with one another. However, some may, from time to time, make mistakes in the process of growing up. Some students may act inappropriately to express their unhappiness or resolve conflicts in an aggressive way. Our schools do not tolerate physical aggression. When such incidents occur, school staff will step in to defuse and manage the situation. Schools also check on the physical and emotional well-being of the victims, discipline and counsel the aggressors, and educate the bystanders.

Our schools impart social and emotional skills, such as emotional regulation and conflict management through Character and Citizenship Education (CCE). Positive values, such as respect and harmony, are also emphasised. Teachers use teachable moments, including the recent incident, to educate our students and reinforce the relevant skills and values. Schools also actively create a positive and supportive environment for all our students.

All schools have been equipped with closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems to enhance safety and security within their premises. The cameras are installed to cover critical areas in schools, like gates, access routes and blind areas. This is mainly to deter crime and detect willful intrusions.

Shaping the character and behaviour of our students is an ongoing process. It requires the collective effort of the school, the family and the community to educate and support our students as they learn from their mistakes and strive to become better persons.