Singapore schools relax rules on uniforms as Asia battles record sweltering temperatures

Singapore’s education ministry says schools can explore ways to help students manage the heat, such as allowing pupils to wear physical education attire

Temperature records continue to be shattered across Asia, with Vietnam’s Tuong Duong district hitting 44.2 degrees Celsius and Luang Prabang in Laos registering 43.5 degrees

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A woman cools herself during hot weather in Bangkok. Photo: AFP

Published: 6:30pm, 12 May 2023Updated: 8:31am, 14 May 2023

Several schools in Singapore have begun relaxing their rules on uniforms in a bid to help pupils manage the heat as the country experiences one of its warmest months of the year.

At one primary school, pupils were told they did not have to wear their pinafore after a physical education (PE) class if they were feeling too hot, according to a report by broadcaster CNA.

At another, students were allowed to wear their PE attire instead of their full uniforms.

The education ministry said schools had guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff during hot weather.

“Schools may also explore ways to help students better manage the heat, such as allowing students to dress in [PE] attire or their school T-shirt, depending on their specific needs,” the ministry said, adding that students had been encouraged to stay hydrated during and after physical activities.

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