Anambra State Schools Ban Student Use of Mobile Phones to Enhance Learning

 

Secondary school principals and teachers in Anambra State have been granted full authority to confiscate mobile phones from students who bring them to school. This directive aims to curb distractions, enforce discipline, and improve students’ academic performance.

The directive was issued by Nkechi Ikediugwu, Chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), during the Anambra Schools’ Cultural Day celebration in Awka on Friday. She emphasized the need to create a focused learning environment, free from the interruptions caused by mobile phone usage among students.

Maintaining Discipline in Schools

Ms. Ikediugwu expressed concern over the increasing trend of students using mobile phones during school hours, stating that it has become a major distraction to their studies. According to her, ensuring discipline and concentration in schools is a top priority for the government, as these are crucial to fostering academic excellence.

“The use of mobile phones by students during school hours has become a significant hindrance to their learning process,” she stated. “To address this issue, I am authorizing school principals and teachers to seize any mobile phone found in the possession of students while in school. This measure will help ensure that students remain focused on their academic work without unnecessary distractions.”

The directive aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration’s commitment to improving the education sector. Ms. Ikediugwu highlighted that the government is making considerable investments to enhance the quality of education and instill discipline in students.

“We cannot allow distractions to derail the efforts being made to improve the education sector. The government is determined to promote a learning environment where students can thrive academically,” she added.

Reactions from Stakeholders

The new policy has sparked mixed reactions from parents, teachers, and students. While some educators have welcomed the decision, seeing it as a necessary step toward restoring discipline in schools, others argue that there should be a balance between technology and education.

A secondary school teacher in Awka, Mrs. Nneka Okoye, supported the directive, stating that mobile phones have been a source of distraction for many students.

“I have seen students texting during lessons, watching videos, and even playing games when they should be focusing on their studies. This move will help them pay more attention in class,” she said.

However, some parents have raised concerns, arguing that mobile phones are essential for communication, especially in emergencies. Mr. Obinna Nwafor, a parent, suggested that rather than an outright ban, schools should establish guidelines that regulate phone usage without completely prohibiting them.

“In today’s world, mobile phones are not just for entertainment; they are also tools for learning. Instead of seizing them outright, schools should create policies that allow students to use phones responsibly,” he said.

Preserving Igbo Culture through Education

Beyond the issue of mobile phones, Ms. Ikediugwu also emphasized the importance of cultural preservation. Speaking at the Anambra Schools’ Cultural Day event, she underscored the need to educate younger generations about Igbo traditions, values, and heritage.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that Igbo culture and traditions are passed down to the younger generation. Events like this help our students appreciate the rich history of Ndigbo and understand their cultural identity,” she noted.

The cultural day celebration featured traditional dances, storytelling, masquerade displays, and Igbo language competitions, all aimed at promoting the state’s cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The decision to prohibit mobile phones in schools is expected to spark further discussions among educators, parents, and students. While the policy is intended to create a more disciplined and academically focused environment, it also raises concerns about the balance between technology and education in the modern era.

As Anambra State continues to invest in its education sector, policymakers and stakeholders may need to explore additional strategies to ensure that students benefit from both structured discipline and the advantages of technology in learning.