The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is investigating inappropriate student behaviour at a freshman orientation camp, after a video showing a student thrusting his hips while chanting obscenities began circulating online.
Last weekend, a student published a video recording online that showed a group of freshman chanting “kukubird” – a word that refers to the male genitalia – while thrusting their hips and pointing to their groins.
NTU has since revealed that it is investigating the incident for “inappropriate student behaviour” since the cheers – which are believed to be crafted by the students – are not in line with school standards and contravenes the school’s values of safety, respect and inclusiveness.
Associate professor Victor Yeo, who is deputy associate provost for student life at NTU, told the Straits Times that “Any student found to be responsible for allowing, condoning, arranging or participating in such cheers will be counselled and also face disciplinary action.”
NTU said that it would also provide support for students who have been emotionally disturbed by inappropriate behaviour.
This is not the first time sexualised camp activities at local universities have been in the limelight. Earlier, student conduct was hotly debated when lap dances and re-enactment of rape scenes were reported at orientation sessions at certain institutions. -/TISG