Offenders are also referred to student health counselors, as well as programs to help them quit smoking. The MOE said it was also working with the students’ parents to support them.
“If necessary, schools can also run longer-term prevention programs with students in need of increased support,” the Department for Education said.
In character and citizenship education classes at the elementary, secondary and pre-university levels, students learn to “recognize impulsive and addictive behaviors” that affect their mental and physical well-being.
They also learn strategies for developing self-control and dealing with negative peer influences, the MOE said in its statement.
“Throughout the course, students are encouraged to make responsible decisions considering how their actions may affect them and others. They are also encouraged to seek out peers in need and refer them to a trusted adult,” the Department for Education said.
In addition to the school curriculum, schools are partnering with HPB to educate students about the health risks of vaping, the ministry said.
“The MOE also works closely with HPB to educate parents about the health risks associated with students using banned tobacco products such as vaporizers.”
Singapore has seen an increase in the number of people caught using and owning vapes. In a September 27 update, HSA said 3,912 people were arrested for these offenses between January and August this year.
In 2021, 4,697 people were arrested for the same offence, more than triple the figure of 1,266 the previous year.
A total of 428 people were arrested selling vapes from 2018 to August 2022. Ninety-one were prosecuted during the same period.
Violators who sell, possess for sale, import or distribute electronic vaporizers 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.