97% of pre-schools have installed CCTV cameras

Most make July 1 deadline; ECDA to work with rest to ensure they comply before Jan

- Gabrielle Chan

About 97 per cent of pre-schools and all government-funded early intervention centres have installed closed-circuit television cameras on their premises as at June 26, said the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).

The agency announced in August 2023 that all pre-schools and government-funded early intervention centres would be required to have CCTV cameras installed by July 1, 2024.

In response to queries, ECDA said on July 5 that it is working closely with the centres that have yet to install these cameras to ensure they comply with the requirement before Jan 1, 2025.

“ECDA recognises that some centres may need more time to install the CCTV cameras due to reasons such as upcoming relocation or renovation plans,” the agency said, adding that the centres will be given a six-month advisory period before enforcement takes place.

The CCTV cameras are required in key access points and areas used by children, such as classrooms, activity rooms, play areas within the premises, and infant napping rooms.

Mr Andy Teo, director of ELF Preschool, told The Straits Times that his centre finished installing CCTV cameras in June. The pre-school in Bukit Batok takes in children from 18 months to six years old.

Following ECDA’s announcement, Mr Teo said he started doing research on CCTVs from April to May, before starting the process of installation. The centre now has 17 cameras.