CYPRUS BANS MOBILE PHONES IN HIGH SCHOOLS

Sun 20 October 2024:

Cyprus has joined a small group of European Union (EU) countries banning mobile phones in secondary schools.

Education Minister Athina Michaelidou announced that new rules will be issued in two weeks, requiring devices to be deactivated and stored during school hours, except for emergencies or educational use.

The ban, approved by parliament, aims to create a distraction-free environment, improve student focus, reduce bullying, and support those with mobile addiction.

Certain exceptions do apply, such as for emergencies relating to health and safety. For example, where diabetic students need to use an app to measure their blood sugar level. Another exception is if a teacher expressly allows students to switch on their electronic devices for strictly educational purposes.

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The Akel party had proposed an amendment where students in grades 1-3 would be banned from any use of their mobiles throughout the day, including during class breaks, but allow grades 4-6 to use them only during breaks. The amendment was defeated.

The education ministry later welcomed the development. In a statement, it said the aim was to create “a distraction-free school environment without disruptions to the teaching process, contributing to the emotional stability of students, limiting incidents of digital intimidation among students, and enhancing students’ overall wellbeing and academic performance”.

In remarks on the House floor, Disy MP Giorgos Karoullas said there had been a need to control the use of mobile phones in schools, as “the situation had gotten out of hand.”

Cyprus follows EU countries like France, Hungary, and Italy in restricting mobile phone use in schools.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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