Review of Three-Year Suspension of Primary 1 Student Intake Imposed on Madrasahs Given Consistent Successful PSLE Performance

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Education in view that the four madrasahs have met the PSLE benchmark since 2021 (a) whether failure to meet the PSLE benchmark will result in a three-year prohibition on the intake of Primary 1 students; and (b) if so, whether the Ministry will review such a requirement.

Mr Desmond Lee: The four madrasahs are designated schools under the Compulsory Education Act. They are required to meet the PSLE benchmark at least twice within each three-year assessment period. This requirement, which remains relevant, ensures that children in madrasahs have a firm academic foundation.

Since 2011, the four madrasahs have met this requirement.