Brussels: The Czech government is poised to approve legislation that would prohibit the use of mobile phones and other electronic communication devices in kindergartens, primary schools, and the lower grades of multi-year grammar schools. This move, reported by local media, aims to extend the ban beyond classrooms to include school breaks, cafeterias, and after-school programs.

According to Anadolu Agency, the bill has been put forward by Prime Minister Andrej Babis and Education Minister Robert Plaga. The proposal includes exemptions for students who need electronic devices for medical reasons or special educational needs. Additionally, schools would have the discretion to authorize device use during lessons or school trips if deemed necessary for educational purposes.

Children's Ombudsman Martin Benes has expressed criticism of the proposal, suggesting that schools already possess sufficient authority to regulate mobile phone use through their own internal policies, making additional legislation redundant.