Singapore Schools Enhance Anti-E-cigarette Education with Scenario Discussions and Scientific Evidence

Key points：

• Scenario-based CCE places students in real dilemmas (peer requests, family pressure) to practise refusal, problem-solving and supportive conversations.
• Science updates explain device mechanics and juice constituents, adding etomidate risks; the drug became Class C on Sept 1, alongside tougher penalties for vape abuse/supply.
• MOE emphasises addiction science and practical refusal guidance; teachers report peer-driven misinformation, addressed through myth-busting quizzes.
• Peer-support approach scales up: HPB has trained 250+ ambassadors in 35 schools to run ground campaigns and link peers to cessation support.
• Student reflections highlight imperfect information around vaping risks and note relationships and health can suffer; discussions encourage values-based decisions.

2Firsts, October 22, 2025 — According to CNA, Singapore is strengthening school-based anti-vaping education by integrating scenario practice into CCE and evidence-based content into science lessons. In one observed class at Presbyterian High School, Secondary 3 students discussed what to do if a friend asked them to hide a vape during a random bag check; many chose to refuse, check on their friend’s wellbeing and point them to help.

Since September, schools have received new materials covering vape device mechanics and vape-juice constituents, with updated information on etomidate—the anaesthetic found in drug-laced vapes like “Kpods”—which was listed as a Class C drug on Sept 1, when harsher penalties for abusers and suppliers also took effect. MOE said the curriculum adds the science behind addiction and practical refusal skills.

Student Muhammad Harith Firas Ismael (15) said he once thought vaping and smoking were equally harmful but realised vaping can be worse due to misinformation; he was shocked that vapes could contain etomidate causing hallucinations, drowsiness and loss of control. 

Student Anag Zoanne Sarah Ordonio (15) noted vaping can damage relationships and prefers supportive conversations over flat refusals.

Heng Hui Peng, head of science at Presbyterian High, observed that students tend to follow peers when unsure—hence the focus on teaching correct facts. Ms Hshieh Szu An, subject head for CCE, said lessons push students to reflect on influences and make values-based choices, while learning how to support others.

Since Sept 1, at least 60 people have been placed on rehabilitation programmes via IMH, HPB and social service agencies. The HPB has trained over 250 student ambassadors across 35 schools through a two-hour online course on regulation, harms, youth trends and marketing tactics, plus project-management skills for outreach and cessation referral.

Image Source: CNA