Decision of the Council of Ministers: ban on mobile phones in schools from the third term

Approved by the Council of Ministers on Friday, the ban on mobile phones in schools will come into force from the third term, after its publication in the Government Gazette. The measure aims to combat classroom disruption, cyberbullying, exam fraud and the misuse of mobile devices. Mobile phones will be banned in schools from the third term. The measure received the approval of the Council of Ministers on Friday and must now be published in the Government Gazette before it comes into force.

This decision follows concerns expressed by rectors, school managers and teachers, who note an increase in incidents linked to the use of mobile phones at school. The authorities cite in particular cyberbullying, reduced concentration and student engagement, unauthorized taking and recording, exam fraud, misuse of social networks, online gaming, exposure of minors to harmful content, conflicts between students resulting from inappropriate use of mobile devices as well as various disciplinary incidents.

Education Minister Mahend Gungapersad said the move was long overdue. “It’s something we wanted from the beginning. We succeeded with the support of the Cabinet and especially of Education partners,” he maintained.

It appears that some establishments have already implemented the ban on mobile phones as part of pilot projects. The administrators of these establishments observed an improvement in discipline, an increase in academic performance as well as better student well-being in general. This measure also aims to educate students in responsible use of mobile phones and to encourage them to only use this tool when it is really necessary.

The new regulations aim to preserve the smooth running of teaching and learning. They also aim to improve classroom discipline and student engagement, reduce distractions during class time and protect learners from harassment, cyberharassment and abuse. The authorities also want to promote responsible and balanced use of technology, prevent unauthorized recording and dissemination of images and content, help children avoid developing dependence on mobile devices and establish a uniform national framework applicable to all educational establishments in the country.

The regulations also aim to strengthen the powers and responsibilities of school heads in the application of these provisions and to guarantee that disciplinary measures are transparent, proportionate.