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In a bid to combat the growing issue of vaping among students, Singapore is taking a multi-faceted approach, combining stricter enforcement with harsher penalties and public education campaigns.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has declared a zero-tolerance stance towards vaping, with any student or employee found vaping facing disciplinary action, including mandatory counselling and potential expulsion or termination. Security officers at NTU are empowered to conduct random bag checks and patrol smoking hot spots. Similarly, other institutions in Singapore, including National University of Singapore, Republic Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic, and Singapore Management University, have also tightened vaping enforcement.
The government of Singapore is reclassifying vaping as a drug issue, with stiffer penalties including jail sentences and tougher enforcement nationwide. First-time offenders at NTU risk a S$300 fine and eviction from student housing. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced plans to roll out stiffer penalties and stronger enforcement against vaping, along with public education in schools and higher learning centers.
However, the fight against vaping is proving to be a long-term, evolving challenge. Despite bans and enforcement, youths continue vaping, often discreetly or covertly, demonstrating ongoing accessibility and social normalization of vaping on campuses. A significant concern is that around one-third of confiscated vapes contain etomidate, a harmful and addictive substance, raising the stakes beyond nicotine alone.
Experts caution that harsh punishments alone can backfire without practical alternatives and norm-setting. The rise in vaping is linked to complex social factors including stress, social peer influences, digital age behaviors, and not simply a lack of discipline, complicating deterrence efforts.
Addressing underlying causes and providing support are critical to overcoming persistent usage and preventing new cases. More emphasis on safe pathways and support for those addicted to vaping is recommended by experts. Assistant Professor Yvette van der Eijk of the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health calls for more emphasis on safe pathways and support for those addicted to vaping.
Quitting vaping may be difficult for some individuals. An NTU undergraduate who stopped vaping last year acknowledges that quitting may not be easy. Concerns about the health effects of second-hand vape exposure have been raised by both students and staff members.
This multi-pronged strategy acknowledges the seriousness of vaping on campuses but also recognizes that addressing underlying causes and providing support are critical to overcoming persistent usage and preventing new cases. Enforcement alone may not be enough to deter all youths from vaping, and a comprehensive approach that includes education, rehabilitation, and support is necessary for sustainable change.
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