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School bullies in Singapore will now face caning under new rules, though the education minister emphasized it will only be used as a last resort with strict precautions. Critics, especially human rights organizations, often target Singapore for persisting with corporal punishment, which remains embedded in both its educational and criminal justice systems. However, officials defend the practice, citing its effectiveness as a crime and misconduct deterrent.
Discussions about caning took place in parliament last Tuesday after lawmakers inquired about its role in addressing student bullying. The debate came after the education department introduced tighter guidelines last month aimed at tackling serious student offenses, including bullying. Under these new rules, offenders could be subjected to one to three strokes of the cane.
“Our schools resort to caning as a disciplinary step only when all other methods have failed, considering the severity of the misconduct,” stated Education Minister Desmond Lee. He added that strict protocols are in place to ensure student safety, including approval from the principal and confinement to authorized teachers for administering caning. Schools will also assess factors such as the student’s maturity and whether caning would help them understand the seriousness of their actions and learn from the experience.
Caning is reserved for boys, as stipulated by the Criminal Procedure Code, which explicitly prohibits punishing women with corporal punishment, Lee explained. This practice traces back to British colonial rule, although the UK abolished corporal punishment long ago. After caning, schools will continue to monitor students’ well-being and progress, offering counseling and support.
A World Health Organization report from last year highlighted that extensive scientific evidence confirms corporal punishment poses multiple harm risks and offers no benefits for children.
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