- An NUS professor faces charges for cannabis and other drug offences.
- Strict drug laws in Singapore may see him jailed for up to 10 years and fined up to S$20,000.
- The case brings to light the rigorous expectations of professional behaviour at Singapore’s top institutions.
A respected professor finds himself in a tangle with the law. It’s a tale of high expectations and hard consequences. Let’s dive into this serious matter.
Cannabis Charges on Campus
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is in the headlines, but not for its usual academic excellence.
Jevdic Dorde, a 39-year-old assistant professor from the Department of Computer Science, has been charged with drug use and possession.
He’s accused of using cannabis. He also had, they say, a vape device containing a cannabinol derivative and other drug items.
Suspended and Summoned
Dorde has not been at work since August 2023.
NUS says it’s waiting for the court’s choice and looking at how to handle things inside the university.
He lived in Kent Vale when the supposed drug use happened. It’s a place with ready-to-use apartments for campus guests.
The Law is Tough
Singapore does not go easy on drug offences. A person can get put away for as many as 10 years. They can also get hit with a hefty fine of up to S$20,000.
This great strictness reflects how Singapore sees drugs. It’s serious business here.
In Dorde’s case, Straits Times reports, “For drug consumption, an offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and fined up to $20,000.”
What’s Next for the Professor?
Dorde’s future is uncertain. In March, he will be in front of a judge.
If found guilty, he might have to swap his professor’s hat for a prison uniform.
It’s a dire situation. Not just for Dorde, but for the reputation of NUS as well.
Keeping the Code
NUS talks about high standards. They expect a lot from their staff.
A university spokesperson shared, “All NUS staff are expected to hold themselves up to high standards of professional and personal conduct, including abiding by the laws and regulations of Singapore.”
This shows that NUS does not play when it comes to rules.
Considerations for Singapore and the World
Singapore is known for its tight grip on drugs.
Cannabis is a no-go in Singapore, just like CBD oil, bongs, or any cannabis-related paraphernalia.
Yet, around the world, some places see cannabis differently. Some even make it legal for medicine or pleasure.
This sparks a debate. How will Singapore keep its strict ways when the world is changing?
What This Means to You
If you are visiting or living in Singapore, know the law well.
Cannabis and other drugs can lead to huge problems here.
Singapore is safe and organised partly because it is so firm on rules.
Remember, follow the law or face tough times.
Looking Ahead
As for Dorde’s case, the facts will come out.
For now, it reminds us. Even those who teach others can fall.
Singapore keeps standing by its choice to be harsh on drugs. This case is another example of that.
Stay informed and keep to the straight path, especially when the laws are clear.
What do you think about the strict drug laws in Singapore? Do they fit into our future, or are changes needed?
