Ifeanyi Ibe
Following the disruptive impacts of mobile phones on lessons, The Netherlands says it will ban students from bringing them into classrooms from 2024.
The Dutch government believes mobiles, tablets and smartwatches are getting in the way of students’ learning and will not be allowed in class from next year.
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“There is increasing evidence that mobile phones have a harmful effect during lessons. Pupils are less able to concentrate and their performance suffers.
“For this reason, mobile phones, as well as tablets and smartwatches, will no longer be allowed in classrooms from January 1, 2024,” it explained.
The government is asking school authorities to agree on internal rules with teachers, parents and pupils by October.
The country’s centre-right coalition has not yet imposed a formal ban but says it reserves the right to do so after measuring progress next year.
AFP reports that the Education Minister, Robbert Dijkgraaf, told parliament he hopes the move will usher in a “cultural transformation” and improve learning.
