MOE must explain if 'Focus On The Family' is spreading conservative Christian values in school

I refer to the report “Hwa Chong to design its own workshops in future” (Oct 10). Following an internal investigation, the school concluded that the facilitators of the relationship workshop were “ineffective”.

It did not, though, address the student’s accusations that Focus on the Family Singapore had seized an “opportunity to further spread (its) own conservative, ‘God-ordained’ beliefs” as well as promoted “rape culture” and gender stereotypes.

The accusations, if not addressed properly, can undermine confidence in our educational system’s reputation and integrity, as it suggests a systemic failure, from the Education Ministry to the school, when implementing such programmes.

The student seemed also to have taken issue with the teaching of abstinence, arguing instead that there were “more important things such as safe sex” to be taught. As a parent, I am dismayed at such liberal views.

Abstinence before marriage is a virtue we must inculcate in our children. Although some people may argue that this is unrealistic, it is still the best option compared with contraceptives, which are not 100 per cent effective.

It is not only a Christian virtue, but cuts across many, if not all, religions as well as the secular realm. To accuse Focus on the Family of pushing its religious values in the classroom is uncalled for.

Lastly, the student seemed to suggest her school is allowing bigotry against students with a different sexual orientation.

She wrote: “The school has a responsibility to ... ensure that it is a place free of bigotry, where students can at least feel safe to study in without fear of being persecuted for who they are or are figuring themselves out to be.”