Ministry of Education bans mobile phones in schools

By Samuel Ouga

The ministry of education has banned the use of mobile phones in schools. Education and sports Minister, in a statement, said her Ministry maintains the position that no student shall be allowed to possess a mobile phone in school for whatever reason.

In statement released to the New Vision the minister said the following reasons informed their decision;

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1)    Government registered an overwhelming rate of exam malpractices. This was particularly noted when students were reported to use phones to receive questions and answers of leaked examinations prior to sitting UNEB Examinations.

2)      Young females cannot be protected effectively if there is completely no control of mobile phone usage in schools.

3)      Mobile phones may be used to encourage the use of illegal drug abuse in schools and to promote criminal behavior in various circumstances.

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The Ministry of Education and sports has directed Head teachers to liaise with Telecom Service Providers to procure phone booths that will enable students to be in touch with their parents in a controlled manner.

The Education and sports minister; Maj. (rtrd.) Jessica Alupo said that government will work with Head teachers towards ensuring that students concentrate on their studies and make use of alternative technological advancement using ICT Equipment already present in many schools other than phones.