Ukraine considers restricting gadgets in classrooms as lawmakers push smartphone limits

The issue of gadget use in schools has resurfaced in Ukraine — this time with a concrete legislative proposal.

What lawmakers propose

On March 27, bill No. 15105 was registered in the Verkhovna Rada, initiated by MP Heorhii Mazurashu. The document suggests amendments to the Law on Education, introducing restrictions on the use of personal devices during classes.

However, some exceptions are provided for — for example, when devices are used for education or are necessary for a health condition..

Not the first attempt

This is not the first initiative of its kind. Back in 2020, a similar bill was introduced by MP Oleksii Honcharenko, but it never reached a vote.

Ministry of Education stance

The Ministry of Education has taken a cautious position regarding a nationwide ban. Minister Oksen Lisovyi previously stated that such decisions are better handled at the school level.

According to him, schools can independently agree on rules with parents and students. In some countries, devices are stored in lockers and returned during breaks.

Legal considerations

Legal experts also highlight potential issues. Since smartphones are private property, their confiscation by schools may raise legal concerns.

However, limiting their use during lessons — such as requiring students to silence or put away devices — does not conflict with current legislation.

Chances of adoption

The likelihood of the bill being passed quickly remains low. Its author is known for submitting a large number of initiatives, only a small portion of which have been approved.

Parliamentary committee members also note that the proposal is not considered a priority, making its timeline uncertain.

Wartime context and parents’ reaction

Security concerns add another layer to the debate. Many parents oppose restrictions, especially under current wartime conditions.

During air raid alerts, students are required to move to shelters, and mobile phones serve as a crucial communication tool. This makes the idea of limiting access particularly controversial.

International experience

Restrictions on smartphone use are already common in many countries. In the UK, schools can confiscate devices if rules are broken, while Poland plans to introduce a mandatory ban for primary schools starting in 2026.

Similar policies are in place in France, Spain, Hungary, and Latvia. According to international organizations, around 40% of education systems worldwide have implemented some form of restrictions on smartphone use in schools.

Impact on academic performance

Research findings remain mixed. In some cases, full bans have led to improved academic results, while partial restrictions — such as limiting usage only during lessons — tend to be less effective, as students often find ways to bypass them.