Committee of Supply 2024 debate, Day 4: Chan Chun Sing on managing CCE lessons on Israel-Hamas conflict

Singapore needs to equip its people, starting with the young, with the skills and values to navigate this fast-paced, often divisive and confusing world, said Education Minister Chan Chun Sing. The latest escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict is a stark reminder that external events can affect Singaporeans in different ways and even fracture society, he said in Parliament on Monday (Mar 4). That is why the Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) lessons on contemporary issues are often drawn from events happening around us to help students better navigate the vagaries of the world, he said. Mr Chan told the House that the lessons on the Israel-Hamas conflict aim to help students understand what is going on, express their own views, manage their emotions, appreciate diverse perspectives sensitively and respectfully and discern information from different sources, as well as play their part to support racial harmony and social cohesion. “It does not tell students that one party in this conflict is good and the other is evil. It does not impose any particular perspective or interpretation of events. It most certainly does not create a wedge between our students' religious beliefs and their national identity. It is also not meant to bring other people’s politics into our schools,” he said. Mr Chan hopes all Singaporeans can agree with the Ministry of Education (MOE) on the intent and importance of CCE. Updating the House on the feedback obtained so far, Mr Chan said most teachers took on the challenge and carried out their duties professionally because they understood the importance of the task. To conduct CCE lessons well, they will require facilitation skills, beyond content mastery. For students, some asked for more information, expressed sadness about the tragic situation and asked thoughtful questions - and these voices reflect the intent of the learning objectives of CCE. Mr Chan said MOE is fully committed to equipping teachers to help students navigate this complex world. It will update its materials and address the feedback and ongoing developments. It will also improve its teaching methods based on the experiences. Firstly, it will customise the lesson materials further for students of different age groups and continue to reflect the diversity of views of the community. Secondly, it will better equip teachers to engage their students. Mr Chan said for MOE, there are several learning points - it cannot underestimate the damage that misrepresentation can cause and managing differences respectfully is still a “work in progress”. He noted that by and large, Singaporeans expressed their views in a civil and respectful way, but some of the online anger has been directed at MOE and its teachers. Some educators have received rude and abusive comments. Mr Chan said MOE will investigate all instances of abuse, harassment or threats against educators. A third learning point - being very watchful for potential external interference to incite anger and unhappiness. The fourth learning point - Singapore’s unity depends on sustained commitment and efforts. “Let us stand united as Singaporeans to support this important yet challenging effort for the sake of our children and the future of Singapore,” he said.