Louis Chua questions conflict of interest procedures in Direct School Admission selection

SINGAPORE: The Minister of Education, Chan Chun Sing, stated during a Parliament sitting on Tuesday (6 Aug) that all individuals involved in the Direct School Admission (DSA) selection process must declare any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves if necessary.

During the session, Louis Chua Kheng Wee, Member of Parliament for Sengkang GRC from the Workers’ Party (WP), questioned Minister Chan about the necessity of conflict of interest declarations for those involved in the DSA selection process.

He also inquired if individuals should abstain from the selection process if they have a close affiliation with any DSA candidate.

In response, Minister Chan emphasized the purpose of DSA, stating that the program aims to recognize student talents and achievements beyond academic grades, providing alternative pathways for students to enrol in secondary schools or junior colleges that match their abilities.

He highlighted that the DSA selection process is founded on principles of transparency, objectivity, inclusiveness, and student-centricity.

While schools have autonomy in their selection, they must adhere to guidelines from the Ministry of Education (MOE) to ensure a holistic evaluation of candidates.

These guidelines require the school leadership team to lead DSA selection panels and oversee the process, with non-school staff, such as coaches and instructors, invited to provide input.

“MOE also requires all individuals involved in the DSA selection process to declare any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from the process if necessary,” he stated.

He warned that coaches and instructors who imply they can influence DSA outcomes to market their services may face de-registration from MOE.

Citing a recent case, Minister Chan mentioned a basketball coach who allegedly accepted bribes to secure placements under the DSA scheme.

The coach has been de-registered and suspended from the National Registry of Coaches.

MOE has reminded schools to ensure their DSA processes adhere to the guidelines and that the school leadership team is involved in final decision-making.

The MOE regularly reviews the DSA selection guidelines, incorporating observations and feedback from previous exercises and engaging schools on updates.

“We will continue to update these guidelines to strengthen the process and address gaps,” Minister Chan said.

He acknowledged that no system is perfect and that the integrity and professionalism of individuals involved are crucial to the DSA selection process.

The MOE takes allegations of wrongdoing seriously and will investigate every case.

“If there are allegations of any wrongdoing, we will refer them to the relevant authorities for investigation,” he assured.

“We will take firm action against the parties involved – both giver and taker – if there is evidence of wrongdoing, to ensure the integrity and fairness of the DSA selection process.”