Chinese School Sparks Outrage with Controversial "Suicide Disclaimer" for Students

CNChina|

A secondary school in China's Guangdong province has come under intense scrutiny after mandating students to sign a letter that absolves the institution of any responsibility for self-harm or suicide. Shuizhai Middle School, located in Wuhua county, reportedly initiated discussions on the importance of cherishing life before presenting students with a disclaimer.

The letter stated that any acts of self-harm or suicide would not be attributed to the school, emphasizing that neither the students nor their guardians could hold the institution accountable or seek compensation. This move was widely criticized on social media after a concerned parent notified local authorities.

In response to public outcry, the local Education Department launched an investigation in December, confirming the school's discussions on life were conducted on December 23 before students signed the letter. The department has since described the contents of the letter as "inappropriate" and instructed the school to retract it.

Officials urged the school to explain the situation to students and their parents, stating their intent to enhance psychological support methods across regional schools to safeguard students' mental wellbeing. The decision to require such a disclaimer has been denounced by many, with critics arguing that it undermines the school’s moral obligations to protect its students.

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