New Regulations on Mobile Phone Usage in Schools Allow for Exceptions

Starting May 1, a nationwide ban on mobile phones, smartwatches, and similar devices will be implemented in schools up to the eighth grade, applying throughout the school day and during school events. However, the newly released regulations permit school stakeholders--comprising student, parent, and teacher representatives--to establish various exceptions.

Teachers will have the discretion to allow mobile phone usage for educational purposes, enhancing the learning experience. This follows a pattern already seen in many schools, where phone usage has been managed under school autonomy. The recent directive aims to provide support to school leaders and educators, as articulated by the Minister of Education.

The initiative was motivated by a desire to revive interpersonal interactions among students during breaks and to boost their concentration and social skills. The Minister emphasized that the exclusion of mobile phones from schools is essential, only to be reintroduced when pedagogically necessary.

While the overarching rule prohibits mobile phone use in schools, exceptions can still be made where local regulations align with the new directive. This includes restrictions on device usage during school events. For extended activities, such as sports weeks, a limited use of devices will be allowed to facilitate communication with parents.

Specific provisions allow for mobile phones to be utilized in classes like Digital Basics, in workshops concerning online safety, or for checking facts and using digital dictionaries. Additionally, mobile phones may serve as digital student IDs or for accessing public transport schedules during multi-day school trips.

Schools have the latitude to create tailored, age-appropriate solutions. For example, during lunch breaks in designated leisure zones, mobile phone usage might be permitted. By the ninth grade, schools may implement rules that apply only to certain classes or students. For instance, one class might face restrictions on phone use, while another could permit it where responsible device management is observed.

In situations such as exam days or assessments, specific policies may dictate the temporary confiscation of phones. Students requiring mobile phones for health reasons, such as managing diabetes with an app, will have fixed exceptions.

Students will be responsible for the security of their devices, with typical storage options like lockers considered safe. Leaving phones unattended in bags is not deemed secure. Teachers will be empowered to confiscate phones until the end of the school day if rules are violated. In the case of repeated infractions or concerning content, such as bullying or inappropriate material, it may be necessary for only parents or guardians to retrieve the confiscated devices.