Bangkok (VNA) – The Thai capital’s authorities have announced the “Phone off, Learning on” programme to limit the use of mobile phones and electronic devices during school hours at 437 schools under the management of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) starting next academic year, due to concerns about learning, wellbeing, and cyber safety.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said this initiative is a proactive measure to regulate and monitor the use of digital devices in schools, thereby enhancing an effective learning environment and preventing negative impacts on health and behaviour caused by excessive screen time.
According to the official, today's children are the first generation to grow up in a context where digital technology plays a significant role in their daily lives. Therefore, the BMA believes that a foundation should be laid for the appropriate use of technology through measures to control the use of digital devices in schools.
The programme is built on three main principles. First, purposeful learning, encouraging the use of digital devices as learning aids under teacher supervision in appropriate lessons rather than for entertainment purposes. Second, protecting health and social development, through establishing digital-free zones at certain times, such as lunchtime or in shared areas, to encourage students to increase social interaction, physical activity, and reduce screen time. Third, ensuring online safety, with a monitoring system to prevent cyberbullying and access to inappropriate content in schools.
To ensure consistent implementation across schools within the BMA system, the measures will be applied as a common standard. For subjects requiring the use of digital devices, teachers may allow students to use them during lessons.
In case of emergency, parents can contact the school via Line or the phone numbers provided for urgent needs. The programme is expected to take effect from the next school year, starting on May 18./.
