The number of students caught vaping has increased to an average of 3,100 a year between 2022 to 2024, according to new figures from MOE. About 800 students at IHLs were caught each year during the same period.
In comparison, fewer than 50 cases from schools and IHLs were referred to HSA before 2020.
Following requests from schools, nicotine test kits have been issued to about 260 schools since March, MOE said on Thursday. Some schools have also deployed metal detectors to check for vape-related devices.
The government will also step up public education efforts by incorporating anti-vaping messages in school materials and prevention programmes.
The stricter penalties for students come on the back of stiffer penalties for vaping that will take effect from Sep 1, as announced during a press conference on Thursday on a whole-of-government effort to tackle vaping.
Currently, those caught vaping are fined S$300 if they are under 18 years old, and S$500 if 18 and above, regardless of whether it is their first or subsequent offence.
From Sep 1, first-time offenders under 18 will face an increased fine of S$500, while those 18 and above will be fined S$700.
Second-time offenders must undergo a three-month rehabilitation programme, and repeated offenders face prosecution and are subject to a maximum fine of S$2,000.
Etomidate will also be listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Under the new framework, first-time Kpod offenders will face the same increased fines, but must also attend a rehabilitation programme lasting up to six months.
Second-time abusers will be arrested and investigated under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Repeat offenders over the age of 16 will be admitted and face a rehabilitation programme at a Drug Rehabilitation Centre, followed by 12 months of drug testing and supervision.
