Oversight and Standardised Guidelines for Anti-bullying and Anti-harassment Policies, Victim Protection and Penalties Across Institutes of Higher Learning

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Dr Charlene Chen, Tampines GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education (a) what specific oversight does the Ministry exercise over anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies in Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs); and (b) whether the Ministry provides guidelines to tertiary institutions on standardised protocols to protect victims and penalise perpetrators.

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye, Radin Mas

Question

To ask the Minister for Education whether the Ministry has issued guidelines to Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) on (i) minimum standards or expectations when handling cases of bullying and harassment and (ii) standardised protocols for the reporting and investigation of such cases, protection and support of victims, and disciplinary action against perpetrators.

Response

1. Mr Speaker, my response will address the questions raised by Members to address MOE’s oversight over bullying in our Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs). May I have Mr Speaker’s permission to answer Question No. 2022 and Question No. *2933?
2. MOE and our IHLs adopt a zero-tolerance stance against bullying and harassment. All IHLs have disciplinary frameworks to address bullying. While the details may differ across institutions, our IHLs’ disciplinary action is calibrated based on the nature and severity of the misconduct, the harm caused, and the student’s level of culpability. Aggravating or mitigating factors are also taken into account.
3. All IHLs have codes of conduct that set out expected standards of behaviour for students. Our IHLs educate all students on respectful conduct, encourage them to look out for one another and speak up when they witness bullying or harassment. When an incident is reported, the IHL will investigate the matter, establish the facts, and take appropriate restorative and disciplinary action based on the circumstances. Depending on the severity of the misconduct, this may include counselling, suspension or expulsion. IHLs also provide counselling and other support for affected students.
4. While MOE does not prescribe a single, standardised protocol for all IHLs, we expect every IHL to have robust disciplinary processes and appropriate support for affected students, and we will continue to work closely with the IHLs to strengthen these policies and practices as needed.