A secondary school in Guangdong, China, came under fire for requiring students to sign a “suicide disclaimer” absolving the school of responsibility if they self-harmed or took their own lives.
Shuizhai Middle School in Wuhua County came under fire after news of the letter spread widely on social media. A parent alerted the authorities, and an investigation was launched by the local Education Department in December, according to Yangcheng Evening News.
The school had discussed the importance of cherishing life with students on December 23, and it was only after that they were asked to sign the controversial suicide disclaimer. The letter had an inappropriate clause stating that if a student self-harmed or committed suicide, the school, along with the parents or guardians, would not hold the school accountable and would not seek compensation.
The letter went saying, “I vow: I will always cherish life and respect life. I will never give my life up for any cause.”. Instead, I will continue my fight and perform with a right attitude. Moreover, it quoted, “In case I perpetrate the crime of self harming or suicide that has nothing to do with this school. The loss or the compensation will be claimed neither myself nor my parents or guardians to the school, nor will bother the school or its staff.”
The Education Department has ordered the school to withdraw the letter and nullify the commitment. The department further directed the school to explain the situation to its students and their parents.
“We intend to make all schools in the region enhance their educational approach psychologically and focus on the psychological welfare of their students,” observed the education department.
The school has severely been criticized for its actions. A netizen commented, “This school crossed all moral boundaries. Its action was beyond my imagination.” Another wrote, “This promise letter should absolutely be cancelled. Otherwise, no humanity would be available at that place. The school should prevent doing such kind of tragedies like self-injury or suicide rather than depending on a promise letter to avoid its responsibilities.”
