Sexuality education is regularly reviewed to ensure relevance

We thank Mr Andrew John da Roza for his feedback (Rethink approach to sex education, Feb 13).

Sexuality education in schools reflects the multi-religious and multi-cultural context of Singapore, and is aligned to Singapore's laws to protect minors. It is taught in a developmentally and age-appropriate manner through character and citizenship education, and science lessons. We would like to assure Mr da Roza that the topics covered go beyond sexually transmitted infections, teenage pregnancy and biological facts on human reproduction.

From primary school, students learn to prioritise their personal safety and ways to protect themselves in the physical and online space. For instance, if students come across any inappropriate digital content, they are taught to close the browser or app immediately and talk to a trusted adult about their experience.

Students are naturally curious to learn more about sexuality in their adolescent years. This is why our teachers strive to create a safe space in classrooms to engage secondary and pre-university students on a range of related topics, including developing and maintaining healthy relationships, the influence of media and pornography and their impact on self-perception, self-esteem and relationships, and the risks and consequences of inappropriate online interactions.

Students are taught skills and essential knowledge to make informed and responsible decisions on sexuality matters. They also learn how to negotiate boundaries, as well as the consequences of overstepping these boundaries. For instance, they learn that it is against the law for minors under 16 to engage in sexual acts.

We encourage our students to have open and honest conversations on related topics with trusted adults, such as their parents, teachers and school counsellors. They have also been taught how to seek help if needed.

The Ministry of Education regularly reviews the sexuality education curriculum to ensure its relevance. We will continue to work with parents to educate, guide and impart values to our young.

Ms Loh Wee Cheng
Divisional Director, Student Development Curriculum Division 1
Ministry of Education