Singapore has introduced caning for male students who engage in bullying, including cyberbullying, under new guidelines that permit the punishment as a last resort. The policy, discussed in parliament on Tuesday, allows up to three strokes of the cane for boys aged nine and above.
Strict Protocols for Caning
Education Minister Desmond Lee told lawmakers that caning would only be applied if all other measures prove inadequate, given the severity of the misconduct. He emphasised that strict protocols ensure student safety, including approval from the principal and administration only by authorised teachers. Schools will consider the student's maturity and whether caning will help them learn from their mistake.
Background and Context
The measures follow a year-long review focused on bullying, prompted by several high-profile incidents last year. Caning will be used only for male students in upper primary levels (ages 9-12) and above, as Singapore's criminal procedure code prohibits caning of women. After punishment, schools will monitor the student's wellbeing and provide counselling.
Female students will face alternative punishments such as detention, suspension, or adjustment of conduct grades. Judicial caning, introduced by British colonialists in the 19th century, remains in use for male offenders under 50 for crimes like robbery, scamming, or overstaying a visa.
International Opposition
International groups, including UNICEF, oppose corporal punishment, citing harm to physical and mental health and increased behavioural problems. A World Health Organization report last year noted that corporal punishment remains alarmingly widespread globally, affecting an estimated 1.2 billion children annually.
The new policy has sparked debate over the use of corporal punishment in schools, balancing discipline with child welfare concerns.
