MULTI-PURPOSE LIFTS FOR SCHOOLS

Dr Teo Ho Pin asked the Minister for Education (a) how many physically handicapped children are studying in our schools, and (b) whether his Ministry will consider installing multi-purpose lifts in all schools to make them handicapped friendly and, at the same time, to facilitate the vertical transportation of goods.

RAdm Teo Chee Hean: Currently, there are 177 physically handicapped pupils in schools. They are receiving therapy and support services from a voluntary welfare organisation, TEACH-ME Services, AWWA. Of these, 122 are in primary schools and 55 in secondary schools.

All new schools and existing schools under PRIME upgrading will be provided with basic handicapped facilities to make the public areas on the ground floor accessible. In addition, in every school cluster, one school will be equipped with a lift, toilets for the wheel-chair bound and other handicapped facilities to allow accessibility to all floors and all rooms. The Ministry also provides lifts for vertical transportation of goods and people in new schools with buildings that exceed 4 storeys.