By Daniel Perez – News Editor
Singapore schools will remain open for classes and national examinations as the country manages a persistent haze, though officials have established clear protocols for potential closures and exam rescheduling. Education Minister Desmond Lee announced on Oct 16 that the ministry aims to minimize disruption for students preparing for the GCE O- and A-Level examinations, which are currently underway.
Air-Conditioned Venues and Exam Schedules
National examinations will proceed as planned in enclosed, air-conditioned venues equipped with air purifiers. Written papers for the GCE O-Level examinations are set to begin on Oct 19 and continue through Nov 10. The GCE A-Level examinations are also ongoing, with practical papers for H2 Physics and Biology scheduled for Oct 19 and 22, respectively, ahead of the main written papers that start on Nov 2.
Trigger Points for Exam Rescheduling
Minister Lee stated that the Ministry of Education (MOE) will consider rescheduling O-Level papers if the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) forecast reaches hazardous levels, which is when the 24-hour PSI exceeds 300. A-Level students, being older, are generally considered less likely to be affected, though authorities will assess the situation on the ground before making final decisions. Students who feel unwell and cannot complete their exams are advised to obtain a medical certificate to apply for special consideration through their schools.
Contingencies for Home-Based Learning
Primary and secondary schools, student care centers, and special student care centers will remain physically open. MOE Kindergartens, Kindergarten Care, and pre-schools licensed under the Early Childhood Development Agency will also remain physically open.
Minister Lee noted that the ministry keeps its “muscles warm” to act if necessary. The government aims to maintain “as much normality as we can, while we protect public health,” according to Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu.
Protections for Platform Workers
The government has also addressed the health risks for platform workers. Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau stated on Oct 16 that workers should not be penalized for delays caused by the haze, including reductions in job allocations or pay deductions. Employers are expected to implement measures such as providing N95 masks and minimizing outdoor work for vulnerable staff when the PSI forecast is above 200. If the forecast hits the hazardous range above 300, companies are expected to adopt additional precautions, such as deferring non-essential work and providing indoor rest breaks.
Regional Smoke and Cross-Border Action
The current haze is largely the result of smoke from fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra drifting toward Singapore. Minister Fu noted that conditions are expected to improve in late October or early November. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has indicated that the government is looking into which companies may be responsible for the fires and is exploring the idea of joint action with other countries.
Parental Guidance and Mask Supplies
What should parents do if they are concerned about their child’s health?
If a child is unwell and unable to take or continue with an exam, they should see a doctor and obtain a medical certificate to apply for special consideration through their schools. Schools will guide these students on the necessary procedure.
Will primary schools automatically close when the PSI hits a certain level?
Primary and secondary schools will remain physically open.
Why are masks sometimes in short supply at retail outlets?
Increased public demand has caused temporary shortages, but the government holds stocks and retailers are replenishing shelves from their warehouses. Mask vending machines are being deployed to ensure continued access for the public.
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