Kampala, Uganda – The Ministry of Education and Sports has announced a ban on the use of handheld mobile devices, including phones and tablets, in Basic and Secondary level School premises until further notice.
According to Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, spokesperson for the Ministry, the ban is in place until policy standards and guidelines are finalized to regulate the use of digital tools and technologies in schools.
“The Ministry is yet to finalize development of Policy Standards and Guidelines to regulate the use of Digital Tools and Technologies in Schools while elaborating on the roles and expectations for each stakeholder – schools, teachers, learners, parents, internet service providers, and digital device providers in Schools.” Said Mugimba in a statement
The Ministry’s Digital Agenda Strategy, launched on August 22, aims to increase the use of electronic tools and technologies in education, but in a safe and phased approach.
“Until the said Policy Guidelines are in place, handheld mobile devices such as phones, tablets, and the like are not allowed for use by learners in School premises.” Said the ministry spokesperson in a statement
In the meantime, school desktops and laptops within computer laboratory facilities will remain the preferred choice for learners to access digital tools, to prevent undue financial burden on parents.
The Ministry has emphasized that digital information security and online learner safety are top priorities in the delivery of digital education interventions for all institutions of learning.
School administrators are responsible for ensuring that internet provided by the institution does not expose learners to unacceptable content, such as pornography, gambling, and criminal websites.
The ban is part of the Ministry’s efforts to ensure a safe and controlled environment for learners to access digital tools and technologies.
