Preschools to stay open as schools close during hazardous haze

Preschools across Singapore will continue operations even when primary and secondary schools are forced to close due to hazardous haze levels, Education Minister Desmond Lee announced. The distinction reflects the different operational requirements of early childhood centres compared to mainstream schools during periods of severe air pollution. Lee indicated that authorities will maintain the existing haze response protocols, which prioritise the closure of schools when air quality reaches hazardous levels to protect student health. The move aims to balance educational continuity with public health safeguards during episodes of poor air quality that typically affect the region during certain seasons. Officials confirmed that national examinations, including O-Level papers, may be rescheduled if schools are forced to close during examination periods. The contingency planning underscores Singapore's preparedness for transboundary haze events, which have periodically disrupted normal activities across the region. Education authorities will issue guidance to schools and preschools on implementing the protocols, with decisions on closures based on real-time air quality data from the National Environment Agency.