Framework for Assessing Suitability of Planned Overseas Destinations for School and Institutes of Higher Learning Trips
Ministry of EducationSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Ms He Ting Ru’s inquiry regarding the safety assessment framework for overseas student trips and the support provided to institutions for managing security risks. Minister for Education Mr Chan Chun Sing responded that schools and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) conduct risk assessments guided by government travel advisories and staff reconnaissance. He stated that institutions must establish contingency plans and travel insurance, with the flexibility to adjust or cancel plans based on adverse ground developments. Mandatory safety measures include staff accompaniment for school trips and the provision of on-site support for older students on long-term exchange programmes. Additionally, all trips are e-registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate timely updates and emergency coordination through Singaporean embassies and consulates.
Transcript
41 Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Education with regard to the Global Education Programme (a) whether there is any standard framework that is applied to assess if the planned overseas destination is unsafe or no longer suitable; (b) what support is given to Institutes of Higher Learning and schools in determining whether the destination poses a security risk; and (c) what other measures are taken to maintain the safety of students while they are taking part in the programme.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: The safety and well-being of our students and staff are a top priority in the planning and management of overseas trips. Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and schools undertake risk assessment and consider information like travel advisories and guidance from the Ministry of Education and other Government agencies. IHLs and schools also conduct staff recce trips, where necessary. When there are adverse developments on the ground, IHLs and schools will adjust, postpone or cancel their plans as needed.
IHLs and schools also obtain travel insurance, establish contingency and crisis management plans and provide students administrative and pastoral support prior to and during trips, including briefing them on safety precautions. All overseas trips organised by schools, polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education have accompanying staff to oversee the safety and well-being of students. Older students who go on overseas exchange programmes and internships of longer duration can consult on-site staff from the host institutions or companies. All trips are also e-registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), so that participants can receive timely updates on the ground. IHLs and schools work closely with Singaporean embassies and consulates in cases of emergencies.