Statistics on Pre-tertiary Peer-to-peer Sexual Misconduct Cases Reported and Counselling Support Protocols Available

39 Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Minister for Education (a) in the past five years, how many pre-tertiary peer-to-peer sexual misconduct cases were reported to the Ministry at the (i) primary and (ii) secondary levels, respectively; and (b) what support is available for families in counselling such students and what is the protocols if parents decline intervention services for the alleged perpetrator.

Mr Desmond Lee: The number of peer-to-peer sexual misconduct cases involving primary and secondary students reported to the Ministry of Education has remained low in the past five years.

When there are reported incidents of sexual misconduct, schools manage the cases holistically. This can include taking disciplinary measures, reporting to the authorities, strengthening support for victims and reinforcing education of the students involved.

School counsellors are trained to guide and support the students involved, including addressing social-emotional and other underlying issues. When parents decline support from school counsellors, schools will explore alternatives, including referring the students to social service agencies for specialised support. Schools are committed to engaging the parents to ensure their child receives the appropriate guidance and intervention.