Chinese School Criticized for Requiring Students to Sign "Suicide Disclaimer"

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A secondary school in Guangdong, China, has come under fire after requiring students to sign a controversial "suicide disclaimer" that absolves the school of responsibility in the event of self-harm or suicide. Shuizhai Middle School, located in Wuhua County, prompted backlash after discussing the importance of cherishing life with students on December 23 and then asking them to sign a letter stating they would not hold the school accountable for any self-injurious actions.

The letter included a commitment to valuing life and optimism, but also stated that if a student were to attempt self-harm or suicide, neither they nor their guardians could seek damages or disrupt the school's educational activities. The situation drew attention after a concerned parent reported it, leading to an investigation by local education authorities.

The Education Department has since directed the school to withdraw the letter and provided instructions to clarify the situation to students and their parents. The department emphasized plans to improve psychological well-being practices in local schools in response to the public outcry against the school’s actions.

Critics have condemned the school's approach, underscoring the need for educational institutions to proactively support students' mental health rather than evading responsibility through legal disclaimers.

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