Offenders are also referred to Student Health Advisors, as well as programmes meant to help them quit smoking. MOE said it also works with the students’ parents to support them.
“Where necessary, schools may also conduct longer term preventive programmes with students in need of greater support,” the Education Ministry said.
In character and citizenship education lessons across the primary, secondary and pre-university levels, students learn to “recognise impulsive and addictive behaviours” that harm their mental and physical well-being.
They also learn about strategies to develop self-control and manage negative peer influences, said MOE in its statement.
“Through the lessons, students are encouraged to make responsible decisions by considering how their actions can affect themselves and others. They are also encouraged to look out for peers in need and refer them to a trusted adult,” said the Education Ministry.
On top of the school curriculum, schools partner HPB to educate students on the health risks of vaping, said the ministry.
“MOE also works closely with HPB to educate parents on the health risks associated with students using prohibited tobacco products such as vaporisers.”
Singapore has seen a rise in the number of people caught using and possessing vapes. In an update on Sep 27, HSA said 3,912 people were caught for these offences between January and August this year.
In 2021, 4,697 people were caught for the same offence, more than triple the figure of 1,266 in the previous year.
A total of 428 people were caught selling vapes from 2018 to August 2022. Ninety-one were prosecuted in the same period.
Offenders found to be selling, possessing for sale, importing or distributing e-vaporisers can be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for up to six months, or both for the first offence.
Repeat offenders could be fined up to S$20,000, jailed for up to one year, or both.