How does the MOE plan to address concerns about the pupil protection pledge?

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Ministry of Education to Hold Special Session to Address Pupil Protection Pledge Concerns

The Ministry of Education (MOE) plans to address concerns surrounding the School Pupil Protection Policy by convening a special session with stakeholders. This initiative, led by the Education director-general and the MOE’s Legal Adviser, aims to clarify the policy's objectives and provide a platform for dialogue regarding the compliance pledge. The policy itself is intended to establish comprehensive safeguards for all individuals interacting with students, with a primary focus on the well-being of pupils, educators, and the broader school community.
Special Session with Stakeholders Planned

To directly address the apprehension that has arisen, the Ministry of Education has organised a dedicated session involving key stakeholders. This meeting will be spearheaded by the Education director-general and the MOE’s Legal Adviser. The purpose of this session is to provide a thorough explanation of the School Pupil Protection Policy and to engage with concerns that have been voiced, particularly by teachers.
Policy Aims to Enhance Safety and Define Responsibilities

The School Pupil Protection Policy has been formulated with the overarching goal of ensuring comprehensive protection for all parties involved in interactions with pupils. A core tenet of this policy is the prioritisation of the safety of students, teachers, and the entire school community. Furthermore, it delineates specific guidelines detailing the responsibilities incumbent upon various parties and outlines the procedural steps to be undertaken in the event of any untoward incidents within school premises.
Compliance Pledge Requirement Under Discussion

As part of the policy, announced via a Professional Circular (SPI) dated July 1, staff members and external individuals who have official dealings with schools and their members are required to sign a School Pupil Protection Policy Compliance Pledge. This pledge serves as a declaration of their commitment to upholding pupil safety. However, the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) is actively engaged in negotiations with the MOE to seek the withdrawal of this pledge.
Union Seeks Withdrawal and Alternative Measures

The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) has expressed its reservations about the appropriateness of the compliance pledge. The union is in discussions with the Ministry of Education to have this pledge withdrawn and replaced with alternative, more professional measures. NUTP's concerns include the potential for the pledge to undermine teachers' capacity to provide optimal protection and the risk of exposing educators to future civil lawsuits.

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How does the MOE plan to address concerns about the pupil protection pledge?

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