• Source:JND
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Singapore school phone ban:  Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced a sweeping expansion of its screen-use rules. From January 2026, all secondary school students in Singapore will have to keep their smartphones and smartwatches locked away for the entire school day.

The updated regulation marks one of the city-state's most comprehensive digital-discipline measures to date, and comes after growing concerns about children's screen dependence. The decision, issued in a detailed statement on Nov 30, extends restrictions that currently apply only during classroom lessons.

From 2026, the ban will also cover recess, co-curricular activities, enrichment sessions, remedial classes, and any other on-campus hours. Students will be required to store their devices in lockers or bags as soon as they arrive at school. Officials said the move aligns with broader efforts under the national Grow Well SG strategy, aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyle habits across schools.

Restrictions Students Must Follow

• Mobile phones have to be kept in lockers or school bags during school hours.

• Ban applies during non-lesson time, including recess, CCAs, supplementary, enrichment and remedial sessions.

• Smartwatches are no exception, given their communication capabilities and ability to allow access to applications.

• Exceptions allowed in cases of necessity only, such as urgent communication needs, subject to school approval.

• Teachers retain discretion during lessons; devices may be used only with explicit clearance for learning purposes.

Why Singapore Is Tightening Rules

MOE said research presented by health and digital-behavior agencies has consistently shown that high screen exposure among children displaces essential routines. These include sleep, physical activity, and face-to-face interaction, which are strongly linked to student wellbeing and classroom performance. The ministry noted that several secondary schools that independently implemented stricter rules earlier reported noticeable improvements in students’ focus and peer interaction.

The revised guidelines also reflect a global trend. UNESCO estimates that close to 40 per cent of education systems worldwide have implemented partial or full-scale bans on smartphones. Countries like Australia, China, and several European states have also announced similar moves recently.

In a parallel measure, the default “sleep mode” on government-issued personal learning devices will be brought forward from 11 pm to 10:30 pm starting in January. The lockout will remain in effect until 6:30 am daily. Officials said the adjustment is intended to nudge students toward healthier bedtime routines.

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How Enforcement Will Work

MOE said schools will continue to enjoy autonomy in forming their respective discipline policies to reflect the broad guidelines.  According to the Singapore Ministry, the majority of institutions already prefer counselling-based interventions before turning to punitive measures. Teachers are expected to work with parents to address misuse patterns and coach students on responsible digital habits.

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Restrictions will not be the same for junior colleges and the Millennia Institute because older students are deemed to be more independent in managing devices. But they will still have to face limits during lessons. Detailed instructions will be given to both parents and students through start-of-year briefings, handbooks, and school communication channels, officials said.

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