Mobile Phone Ban in Schools Takes Effect in Cyprus

The Ministry of Education of the Republic of Cyprus is set to enforce legislation prohibiting the use of mobile phones in secondary schools, effective today.

In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Elias Markatzis, the Director of the Department of Secondary Technical and Vocational Education and Training, explained that the ministry plans to tackle this issue “through an educational approach.”

To facilitate this, a circular has been distributed to schools, highlighting the importance of building trust between teachers and students to help them understand the rationale behind the ban.

The enforcement phase will serve as a transitional period, during which penalties for students will not be the priority. Instead, the ministry aims to cultivate a culture that promotes a healthier attitude toward mobile phone use.

Instructions have already been communicated to educators regarding the implementation of these changes.

“We aim to ensure a smooth transition without imposing penalties,” Markatzis stated.

He further clarified that the new law applies only during breaks, as mobile phone use in classrooms has been prohibited for several years.

It’s important to note that the Parliament of the Republic of Cyprus previously approved amendments to regulations that ban students from activating and using mobile phones and other electronic devices during school hours in gymnasiums, lyceums, and technical schools.

According to the amendments, mobile phone use is permitted in specific emergency situations where there is a threat to safety and/or health (for instance, for diabetic students checking their blood sugar levels).