Health, Safety and Security

As participants of any University-Sanctioned Travels, all students must do the following:

a. Health Declaration

Students must declare all notable medical conditions including well-being issues.  Students on regular medication and treatment should seek medical advice (prior to departure) in relation to availability and/or restrictions of their prescribed medicines or treatments in their destination countries. Students must also be mindful that their medical and psychological needs are addressed especially during abroad. Students with pre-existing condition must seek their attending specialist’s advice on their suitability to travel. Programme Managers must ensure that such declarations are documented and managed.

b. Vaccination

Check requirements for vaccinations.  Depending on your travel destination and travel history, your host country may require specific vaccinations that you need to fulfil.  Do plan this early in order not to cause delay in your departure.

c. Students with Physical Limitations, Disabilities, Special Needs

Students with physical limitations, disabilities or special needs must check with programme counterparts abroad if these needs can be supported during their stint overseas.  Students may also reach out to NTU Programme Managers and Accessible Education Unit for support and guidance.

a. Misuse of Drugs Act

All students are strongly reminded not to engage in the consumption of any illegal drugs. Such acts may lead to expulsion from the University, imprisonment of up to 10 years and fine of up to $20,000.  Please refer to Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act as quoted below:

Misuse of Drugs Act
(CHAPTER 185)

Consumption of drug outside Singapore by a citizen or Permanent Resident

8A.—(1)  Section 8(b) shall have effect in relation to a person who is a citizen or a permanent resident of Singapore outside as well as within Singapore where he is found as a result of urine tests conducted under section 31 to have smoked, administered to himself or otherwise consumed a controlled drug or a specified drug.

(2)  Where an offence under section 8(b) is committed by a person referred to in subsection (1) in any place outside Singapore, he may be dealt with as if that offence had been committed within Singapore.

** Please note that while Cannabis is legal in certain parts of the world, it is considered as an illegal drug in Singapore. 

 

b. Alcohol Consumption

While most participants of mobility programmes are of legal age (18 years old) when they embark on official overseas travels, students are reminded to keep their consumption of alcohol in check while abroad. In most countries, it is not culturally acceptable to drink heavily and oftentimes such behaviour is interpreted as disrespectful.  Binge drinking may lead to less inhibitions and cloud one’s judgement putting their personal safety, and that of others, at risk. NTU students are expected to be in their best behaviours especially when representing the University abroad. This is in line with NTU’s Student Code of Conduct, and anyone who is proven to have violated any of its conditions may face serious disciplinary action.

 

c. Local Laws, Cultural and Situational Awareness

All travellers are advised to be culturally sensitive and to research as much information as possible about their host country.  Be aware of the various norms, traditions and nuances of the local community in order to learn what is acceptable culturally.  Familiarise yourself with the local laws and abide by them.

Situational awareness is also key to stay safe.  Be aware of risks within your surroundings and be mindful of how locals perceive foreign visitors.  Here are some tips to do so:

1. Follow local news and advisories; avoid places that are identified as unsafe;
2. Be aware of the political environment; avoid political debates or discussions;
3. Avoid unwanted attention through flashy clothes or attires that connote your political views
4. Always trust your instinct and avoid situations where your safety will be compromised.
5. Ensure you have the contact details of Singapore Mission or your home country’s embassy in case you would require consulate services.

 

d. Road Safety

Road accidents and injuries occur daily in any part of the world.  According to World Health Organization (WHO),  Approximately 1.3 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes.  Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5-29 years.

All students are reminded to take the necessary precaution where road safety is concerned.  Please take note of the following tips from ISOS  Road Safety Pocket Guide.  For more information, please visit the ISOS website.