Work to install cooling systems that combine air-conditioning and fans in school halls is nearing completion, while the Ministry of Education (MOE) is studying how to extend the approach to classrooms.
Senior Minister of State for Education Janil Puthucheary gave the update in Parliament on 3 November 2026, while answering questions about protecting students and staff during haze.
Classrooms Still Under Study
The approach, called mixed-mode cooling, uses air-conditioning together with fans to keep spaces comfortable while managing energy use.
Dr Janil said MOE would share an update on its classroom study when ready.
Workers’ Party MP Kenneth Tiong of Aljunied GRC had asked whether MOE would reconsider its reliance on natural ventilation in classrooms.
Dr Janil said classrooms currently use natural ventilation and ceiling fans. As temperatures have risen, schools have added fans and introduced more powerful, energy-efficient models.
How Schools Manage Heat During Haze
For daily operations, MOE checks the previous evening’s 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) forecast and monitors one-hour PM2.5 readings throughout the day.
When the one-hour readings enter the elevated range of 56 to 150, schools close classroom doors and windows and switch on air purifiers.
To improve ventilation and comfort, windows can be opened between lessons, during recess or when air quality improves, with purifiers continuing to run.
Schools can also use standing fans or air coolers when needed, and students may wear lighter attire such as their PE uniforms.
Dr Janil acknowledged that prolonged haze makes it challenging to balance indoor air quality, ventilation and temperature.
When School Closure May Be Considered
If the next day’s 24-hour PSI forecast reaches the hazardous range of 301 or above, MOE will consider closing schools and moving students from preschool to secondary level to home-based learning.
