The parliament is set to vote next week on a contentious proposal by the Ministry of Education to ban the use of mobile phones and other smart electronic devices during school hours.
The House Education Committee has studied the regulations over three sessions, with various stakeholders expressing conflicting opinions on the matter.
Key perspectives include:
- The Commissioner for Children’s Rights expressed reservations, suggesting education on proper use rather than an outright ban.
- OELMEK, the teachers’ union, supported the ban but warned of increased workload for teachers.
- Secondary School Directors strongly advocated for a complete ban, citing serious academic and social consequences of mobile phone use.
- The Pan-Cypriot Confederation of Secondary School Parents raised concerns about banning phones entirely, noting students’ need for devices after school.
- The Pan-Cypriot Student Coordination Committee strongly opposed the ban, arguing it would strain student-teacher relationships.
Education Minister Athena Michaelidou defended the proposed amendments, stating they aim to create a distraction-free learning environment and reduce digital bullying.
A revised text allows for phone use in emergency situations related to safety or health issues.
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