SCHOOL DROP-OUTS

Dr Lee Tsao Yuan asked the Minister for Education (a) how many drop-outs there are from school by grade in 1998 (in relative and absolute terms); (b) whether there is a discernible trend in the number of school drop-outs; (c) what measures are being taken to encourage these children to return to school; and (d) whether Patricia Chay is now back in school and, if not, whether measures are being taken to encourage her to do so.

The Senior Minister of State for Education (Dr Aline Wong): Minister Teo had earlier addressed the question on the trend in dropout rates, and the measures taken by our principals and teachers when students show signs of dropping out from school.

In the case of Patricia Chay, the school has been working very hard, together with the Tanjong Pagar Community Development Council (CDC), to persuade her parents to send her back to school. They have made numerous visits to her home to counsel her parents. I am pleased to inform Dr Lee that Patricia has been attending school regularly for the past two and a half weeks.

Patricia is well-behaved and relates well with her peers and teachers. She is coping well in her studies and has shown improvement in the programmes she is attending.

The school and the Ministry will continue to provide her with financial, academic and emotional support.

Mdm Claire Chiang See Ngoh (Nominated Member): Are the parents of Patricia Chay receiving counselling?

Dr Aline Wong: Yes. I mentioned that they have been receiving counselling.

Mdm Claire Chiang See Ngoh: By whom and what sort of intensity?

Dr Aline Wong: The school counsellor.