Chan Chun Sing on New App to Manage Student Device Usage After Mobile Guardian Security Breach

The Ministry of Education (MOE) requires its IT service providers to ensure the security of their systems and data. Following the recent cybersecurity incident involving the Mobile Guardian device management application (DMA), MOE has decided to discontinue its use on all personal learning devices (PLDs). It has also taken legal action against the relevant contractors. MOE is currently exploring options for an alternative DMA solution for the iPad and Chromebook PLDs and will work to implement a new DMA solution by January of the new school year. Until the new DMA solution is implemented, schools have implemented additional processes to ensure the safe and responsible use of PLDs during school hours. Education Minister Chan Chun Sing provided the update in response to questions from MPs in Parliament on Tuesday (10 September). He said that while the recent series of incidents were very unfortunate, it should not deter Singapore from delivering education through technology as it enriches the learning experience of students. “We need to learn how to integrate educational technologies into our teaching and learning so that our students become digitally literate, able to navigate digital environments and take on the opportunities and challenges of the future,” he said.