WITH teenager Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam under pressure for championing students’ safety in schools, a former deputy minister lashed out at the Education Ministry (MOE) for dragging its feet on her plight.
“It is very sad that the Education Minister (Radzi Jidin) is not taking proactive action in this case. Not just Ain Husniza and her father, but all parents across the nation are watching how MOE is handling this issue.
“Silence is not an option. Message needs to be sent to all educators that MOE take complaints, especially involving sexual attacks, very seriously,” former Deputy Education Minister Teo Nie Ching told FocusM.
Earlier today, The Vibes reported Ain Husniza as saying that her school had threatened her with expulsion if she continued to skip classes.
The student-activist has been absent from school for several days since her revelation over two weeks ago for fear of her own safety, after she received a rape threat from a schoolmate.
Her father, Saiful Nizam Abdul Wahab, said that Ain Husniza was given a warning letter for not attending school for three days, from April 26 to 28.
“The letter was received on May 4 despite the school assuring her of support,” he was reported saying.
Ain Husniza levelled allegations against one of her teachers for making rape jokes. To date, no action has been taken against the teacher.
On the recent turn of events, Teo said that the school could have handled the issue better instead of issuing a warning letter.
“This is where the MOE should step in. I urge the minister to meet Ain Husniza and her father, together with the school principal.
“Parents must be assured that their kids won’t be targetted if they speak up on any issues involving their schools,” the Kulai MP reminded.
As for errant students, Teo replied: “Reprimand them – schools should do so. Give counselling to the students and let’s turn this episode into a learning experience for everyone’s benefit.” – May 9, 2021.
