27 September 2016
The National University of Singapore (NUS) has taken disciplinary action against at least 14 undergraduates for their role in unapproved orientation activities in July this year. The students had been involved in organising or facilitating orientation camps for freshmen.
Punishments included warnings without record and mandatory community service.
Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS’ deputy president (academic affairs) and provost, said that the disciplinary committee has been asked to “consider new approaches to freshman orientation”.
Acting Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills) Ong Ye Kung had also strongly criticized the students’ actions in a Facebook post made in July.
The matter was also raised in Parliament on Aug 16, again by Mr Ong, who emphasized that personal safety and respect for the dignity of others are key priorities. At the same time however, he cautioned against draconian measures.
The NUS law faculty’s student-run pro-bono group provided legal advice to undergraduates facing the disciplinary process.