A recently surfaced video capturing a woman hitting and berating a student in a Toa Payoh tuition centre has ignited a wave of concern regarding student safety within educational institutions.
Incriminating Footage of Tuition Centre Owner Circulates on Social Media Platforms, News Outlets
The two-minute and 51-second video was shared by several concerned individuals and subsequently uploaded on Facebook, drawing widespread attention and outrage. The incident allegedly took place at ALT Learning of School Afterschool Care and Tuition, located at Block 183 Toa Payoh Central.
The distressing footage reveals a girl kneeling before a woman wearing a black short-sleeved top. The woman, seated behind a desk, repeatedly strikes the student with a pen while berating her in Vietnamese. The woman's aggressive behavior stemmed from accusing the girl of lying about her alleged offense.
Allegations of Additional Student Abuse Further Intensify Concerns
Following the viral video, numerous individuals have stepped forward, posting negative reviews on the tuition centre's Facebook page. Some reviewers voiced their dismay over the woman's behaviour, demanding a boycott of the centre. Additionally, photographic evidence of injuries has surfaced, supporting claims of another student's alleged abuse.
Tuition Centre Owner Responds, Citing Parental Approval for Disciplinary Actions
The owner of the tuition centre, Bui Thi Xuyen, has acknowledged her presence in the video and confirmed that the incident took place during the Covid-19 pandemic, although the exact date remains uncertain. Bui asserted that the girl in question is her goddaughter and that she had obtained parental consent before disciplining her.
Bui justified her actions by explaining that she resorted to such measures due to the girl's reported misbehavior, including involvement in activities like smoking. She believed it was her responsibility to teach the girl a lesson to deter her from future transgressions. Bui emphasized that she maintains a positive relationship with the student and her parents.
Legal Actions and Repercussions vs Tuition Centre Owner
In response to the viral video's impact on her reputation and business, Bui has filed a police report, alleging that a former student's mother circulated the video on Facebook. Bui revealed an ongoing lawsuit against the same individual, who abruptly withdrew her child from the centre, demanding a refund of school fees.
Additionally, Bui has initiated legal proceedings for harassment and defamation, addressing the distress caused by online rumors.
Community Outcry Reflects Wider Concerns over Student Well-being
The incident has ignited fervent discussions within the community, underscoring the importance of ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for students attending tuition centres.
As the case continues to unfold, stakeholders are urging comprehensive measures to safeguard the physical and emotional well-being of students.
Top image screenshot from Miu Tan's Facebook post
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