Students Learn Respect, Boundaries and How to Say 'No' in Sexuality Education

We thank youth forum writer Li Peining for her views ("The absence of sexuality education", Sep 3), and would like to assure Peining and members of the public that students are taught about personal safety and protection from sexual exploitation and abuse as part of Character and Citizenship Education (CCE).

Students are taught age-appropriate concepts related to sexuality in CCE lessons across primary to pre-university levels, and Science and Biology lessons at the secondary level.

In Primary One, students learn what is a good touch versus a bad touch, and to report incidents. The primary and secondary school curriculum teach students how to protect themselves both online and offline, and the laws that protect them in Singapore. Students are taught to respect boundaries and the consequences of overstepping these boundaries. They learn that they can say 'no' to any unwanted contact and seek help from trusted adults like their parents and teachers, whenever they are in an uncomfortable situation. These lessons are reinforced throughout their schooling years.

Schools have safe reporting channels in place for students. Should students experience any uncomfortable situations, or suspect that their peers are exposed to harm, they are strongly advised to report the incident immediately.

The Ministry of Education will continue to emphasise personal safety and help-seeking avenues through Sexuality Education.

Ms Loh Wee Cheng
Divisional Director, Student Development Curriculum Division 1
Ministry of Education