AS A parent of children attending Singapore primary and secondary schools and junior colleges, I read the article 'JC students to learn all about love' (Aug 8) with interest. I would like to ask the relevant authorities to clarify some points on the purpose and cost of the programme.

First, why does the Ministry of Education believe its role in educating children in the public school system now extends into an area that has been traditionally viewed as the responsibility and prerogative of parents?

Second, as mentioned in the article, is this programme linked to the Government's policies to increase the birth rate of Singaporean citizens and, if so, what data or experience has the Social Development Unit (SDU) or the ministry relied on to show it will be successfully achieved by this specific programme?

Third, with secondary school students just as active in relationships, why has the SDU or the ministry limited the programme reach only to JCs or are there plans to include secondary schools at some point in the future?

Finally, what is the expected cost to the taxpayer not just for the pilot project, but the entire programme implementation including indirect costs to the junior colleges for provision of additional facilities, teacher support and related materials?

Given the substantial time, cost and societal pressures facing students these days, I trust the ministry will actively seek the feedback of all affected parents before proceeding with this project.

Brian Selby

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Aug 23, 2008.