Women are starting to hold a larger proportion of top positions in Singapore’s schools.
For example, about 60 per cent of principals and vice-principals here are women, compared with 32 per cent in 1989.
Last year, 49 per cent of secondary schools had female principals.
One school principal quipped, “Society has evolved and there is a growing acceptance that women are just as capable as men in their abilities, work, even to be leaders.”
In response to queries, the MOE said it hires all educators and staff “based on their ability to do the job, regardless of gender, race or age”. “This ensures the best candidates, regardless of background, are always recruited for the position.”
Mr Balamurugan Krishnasamy, principal of SIM International Academy, noted that male educators “provide a balance in the service as they can be positive role models for the male students and can provide the paternal stewardship necessary to balance the school culture”.