Updated: 09/22/2012 07:57

Approach public discourse with tolerance & sensitivity: Lawrence Wong

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Senior Minister of State for Education Lawrence Wong says Singaporeans must strive to approach public discourse with tolerance and sensitivity.

This, even when different beliefs or perceptions are held.

Mr Wong stressed this is especially important in multi-racial and religious Singapore.

He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the Polytechnic Forum this evening.

Mr Wong also engaged in a dialogue with some 300 student representatives from Singapore's five polytechnics.

Among the issues brought up - whether or not to abolish the Primary School Leaving Examination.

While most students agreed that some form of assessment is still needed, some suggested looking at different and broader modes of assessment.

Other topics discussed included exemption from National Service for athletes and benefits for Permanent Residents.