Flemish government bans smartphones in secondary schools
Following a ban on smartphones in primary education, the Flemish government has decided to ban the use of smartphones in secondary schools as well. The measure is intended to improve pupils' concentration, results and well-being.
For the first and second grades of secondary education, a total ban will apply, both during lessons and in the playground. For the third grade, the ban will only apply during the lessons. The same rules apply to other devices such as smartwatches.
“This ban is just common sense,” said Flemish Education minister Zuhal Demir. “This will improve the concentration, school results and well-being of pupils.”
Exceptions will be possible for individual pupils, for example for medical reasons, or for pupils who are carers and need to be reachable. Mobile devices can also still be used for specific educational purposes, such as in media literacy lessons. Sanctions for those using a phone can be decided by the schools.
As in primary education, the measure will take effect in September 2025, but the Flemish government is already encouraging schools to implement the ban. A general smartphone ban will also apply in French-speaking education from next school year.
#FlandersNewsService | Illustration © PHOTO LOIC VENANCE / AFP
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