Incident Overview

In a disturbing incident at Admiralty Secondary School on January 7, a 12-year-old boy is currently assisting police with their investigation into an alleged attack where he reportedly struck a classmate on the head with a bottle.

Emergency Response

The incident occurred around 2PM, prompting a swift response from the Singapore Civil Defence Force, which assessed the injured boy's condition. According to the school, the victim suffered a cut on his head and was quickly transported to the hospital via ambulance. Fortunately, he is now in stable condition, and the school has been in contact with his parents, closely monitoring his recovery.

School Administration's Response

The school's administration has expressed their deep concern regarding student safety, condemning any form of violence. They have taken steps to counsel the student involved and are committed to taking appropriate disciplinary action. "We note that a police report has been lodged on the incident and will assist the police with the investigation," the school stated, emphasizing the importance of respectful communication between families and school staff during this challenging time.

Victim's Condition

Following the incident, the injured boy's family rushed him to Mount Alvernia Hospital, where he was diagnosed with a possible concussion and elevated blood pressure. He is expected to be discharged on January 8 but will require hospitalisation leave until January 14, according to medical documents reviewed by The Straits Times. Family members revealed that this was just the fourth day for the victim at his new school, having only recently started Secondary 1.

Family's Concern

Mr. Jeremy Goh, the boy’s uncle, shared that his nephew is typically soft-spoken and had previously endured minor bullying incidents, but nothing of this magnitude. "This incident has really shaken him; he feels traumatized," Mr. Goh commented. After the attack, the boy has understandably isolated himself from schoolmates, fearing for his safety.

Considerations for Transfer

The severity of the incident has pushed the family to consider transferring him to a different school, as they are genuinely concerned about his mental well-being and continued safety. “For someone who has always been positive, it was heartbreaking to hear him say he no longer believes in school," Mr. Goh lamented. "This shouldn't happen to children who are sent to learn."

Bullying Concerns

This troubling event highlights an escalating concern regarding school bullying in Singapore. Educational Minister Chan Chun Sing recently revealed that approximately two out of every 1,000 primary school students and six out of every 1,000 secondary school students experience bullying incidents annually – a statistic that parents find deeply unsettling.

Community Reaction

As investigations proceed, the community remains vigilant, hoping for swift justice and a safer environment in schools across the nation. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical and psychological impact of bullying, and the urgent need for a collective effort to combat violence in educational settings.