Average of 3,100 students caught vaping in S'pore schools yearly from 2022 to 2024, up from fewer than 50 before 2020

Cases of vaping in schools and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) have increased from fewer than 50 before 2020 to an average of 3,900 a year from 2022 to 2024, according to the Ministry of Education (MOE).

3,100 cases came from schools, with the other 800 from IHLs.

"With intensified enforcement efforts, the average number of students caught in schools and IHLs for vaping offences per year from 2022 to 2024 is about 3,100 and about 800 respectively," said MOE.

With the new measures from Sep. 1, schools will also increase disciplinary measures against these offences, including detention, suspension, caning for boys, conduct grade adjustment and counselling.

Students in IHLs found with vapes and etomidate will have their privileges withdrawn, including overseas exchange programmes, scholarships, and eviction from university hostels.

Repeat offenders may also face suspension or expulsion.

Addressing recent incidents of school students being exposed to vape sellers outside of their schools, Education Minister Desmond Lee said MOE's aim is to heighten students' knowledge of the risks of vaping and consuming etomidate, so as to enable them to say no to external influence.

Preventive education on vaping and school regulations is now covered in common and mandatory orientation modules and outreach talks, he added.

There will also be increased outreach to parents of students, he said, through open communication about updates on preventive measures.

Schools may also request drug detection equipment from the MOE, including saliva testing kits to check for the presence of nicotine.

Image from MOE and Canva