Cell phone ban at schools: Minister of Education calls for clear rules!

Cell phone ban at schools: Minister of Education calls for clear rules!

In a pioneering step, Education Minister Christoph Return (NEOS) has called for a nationwide mobile phone ban for Austrian schools. When his plans were presented on Monday, return said that cell phones should no longer be used during class and breaks. This is done to promote the concentration and well -being of the students and minimize distractions through digital devices. The mobile phone ban could also build on the existing regulations in Vienna, Carinthia and Styria and create a uniform regulation across the country, such as OE24 reported.

Vienna has been a pioneer in this debate since February 24, 2025 after returning a cell phone ban for all elementary and middle schools in the city. The educational city council found that smartphones not only hinder communication among students, but also lead to bullying and problems such as nightly brawls, as . However, teachers can conscientiously allow the use of cell phones in class if they are necessary for lessons. Despite the support for this regulation, there are votes from student representatives who argue that bans are not the solution because they only combat symptoms, but do not appeal to the deeper problems.

Return emphasizes that the cell phone has a serious impact on learning ability and leads to sleep disorders. The minister is supported by experts who underline the health risks of excessive use of cell phones for young people. Many teachers report increasing disorders in class, caused by cell phone use. While the requested regulation is widespread, there are also critical voices that should be noted that the clarification and the responsible handling of digital media should be further promoted instead of just pronouncing bans.

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OrtWien, Österreich
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