The Algerian Ministry of Education has taken a firm stance on the use of smartphones in schools, introducing a new policy that will see any student found using a smartphone in class having it confiscated for the entire school year. This move is aimed at restoring serenity in educational institutions and addressing the growing trend of students filming their classmates and teachers in class and posting the videos on social media.
The decision was made in response to the increasing number of videos being posted on social media, showing students and teachers being filmed without their consent. The ministry has deemed this behavior unacceptable and has introduced new measures to prevent it. According to the new policy, students are prohibited from bringing or using mobile phones, smart devices, and any recording or filming equipment into classrooms and other educational spaces.
The new policy is based on articles 43 and 44 of the unified internal regulations, which were validated by the Ministry of National Education before the start of the school year. Article 43 explicitly prohibits students from introducing or using mobile phones and other smart devices in classrooms and other educational spaces. However, in cases where there is an absolute pedagogical necessity, the use of these tools is subject to prior written authorization from the school administration.
The ministry has also emphasized the implementation of article 44, which states that no audio or visual recording, photo taking, or publication of images of students, teachers, or staff can be done without the explicit written consent of the education director of the wilaya. Any student found to be in contravention of these rules will face disciplinary sanctions and possible judicial proceedings.
In case of flagrant offense, the confiscated smartphone will not be returned until the end of the school year. Students who breach the rules will face severe disciplinary sanctions, in addition to possible prosecution. The new policy aims to protect students' right to a safe and uninterrupted educational experience.
The move is part of a broader effort to reorganize and improve the education system in Algeria. The executive directions of the education ministry have reorganized their services, with public offices now open from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm, and staff dedicated to administrative tasks in the afternoons.
The crackdown on smartphone use in schools has been complemented by a similar move in the higher education sector. The Higher School of Teachers (ENS) in Mostaganem has issued a note emphasizing the importance of correct dress code on campus, warning students that any infringement will be sanctioned in accordance with the regulations.
Key points
- Algerian students found using smartphones in class will have them confiscated for an entire school year.
- The policy aims to address the growing trend of students filming their classmates and teachers in class and posting the videos on social media.
- The new measures are based on articles 43 and 44 of the unified internal regulations, which prohibit the use of mobile phones and other smart devices in classrooms and other educational spaces.
