Schools in Singapore face a persistent challenge during haze episodes, as closing windows to prevent polluted air from entering classrooms often leads to uncomfortable and potentially unsafe indoor conditions. The dilemma pits the need for cleaner air against thermal comfort, raising concerns about health and learning environments.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) outlined its current strategies in a parliamentary response in September 2025. Measures include designing school buildings with a north-south orientation to optimize airflow, incorporating shading features, using large window openings, and deploying ceiling fans. Additional interventions involve applying cool paint, installing more powerful fans, and increasing greenery around school premises. MOE has also indicated ongoing efforts to explore active cooling methods to improve indoor conditions further.
Despite these efforts, schools remain vulnerable when windows must stay closed due to haze. Prolonged periods of poor air quality are a recurring issue in Singapore, often characterized as seasonal but increasingly persistent. The temporary or reactive steps currently in place are seen as insufficient for addressing both air quality and thermal comfort simultaneously.
Health-related concerns are central to this issue. Exposure to haze particles can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat and exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. At the same time, excessive indoor heat resulting from closed windows raises the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, particularly for children with pre-existing health conditions and educators who spend extended hours in classrooms. Moreover, discomfort caused by heat can hinder students’ ability to concentrate and learn effectively.
Air purifiers have been recommended to reduce airborne particulate matter, but they do not alleviate heat buildup indoors. Fans can circulate air but do not remove heat when window ventilation is not possible. As a result, experts advocate for solutions that address both indoor air quality and temperature control.
Energy-efficient cooling systems that integrate air-conditioning with effective ventilation and particle filtration, combined with sensible temperature management and phased implementation, have been proposed as a potential way forward. MOE’s recognition of the need for active cooling indicates openness to new approaches, but calls for a comprehensive plan with clear standards for classroom temperature and air quality have increased.
The situation underscores the importance of embedding haze preparedness into school infrastructure rather than relying on ad hoc responses. Ensuring a safe and comfortable learning environment is essential, particularly when outdoor conditions necessitate keeping windows closed. Without proactive measures, the health and welfare of students and teachers remain at risk during haze episodes.