China bans mobile phones in classrooms over addiction concerns

BEIJING: China has banned the use of mobile phones in the classrooms of primary and middle schools in efforts to protect students from internet and video game addiction.

According to a circular issued by the ministry of education, the students are ordered not to bring mobile phones into the classroom. However, if it was necessary to have a phone with the child due to specific reasons, a special request would be submitted to school administrations with signatures of the child’s guardians.

The child would have to submit the phone to authorities when entering the school if his application gets approved. The authorities will take care of the phones and returned them to the student when going home. The school will also be responsible for the means of students and parents to get in touch in school.