TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Wu-Ling Senior High School students will ask KMT Councilor Chan Chiang-tsun (詹江村) to apologize for criticizing a student and the school over a commencement remark, CNA reported Wednesday.
During the school’s commencement Monday, a student called Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng (張善政) “Xindian mayor,” referring to the New Taipei district where Chang previously lived. Before Chang responded publicly, Chan criticized the student and the school online, prompting criticism that he had ignored students’ right to free expression.
The students said the petition asks the school to address the damage caused to its reputation. It also calls on Chan to apologize to Wu-Ling students, other students, and the school, per Liberty Times.
The school said public comments about education should be based on complete facts and rational discussion. It said one student’s words or actions should not be used to judge all students, teachers, or the school’s education.
The school said some students faced personal attacks, insults, harassment, and pressure on social media after the incident. It said cyberbullying, doxing, online witch hunts, and improper attacks on students do not help education.
Wu-Ling said students are still learning how to express their views and take part in public discussion. It said debate over public issues should be part of democratic education, but should be based on reason and respect.
The school said it had contacted students affected by the controversy and provided counseling and support. It said it would continue to protect students’ rights, uphold education values, and defend the school’s reputation.
