In a bid to promote healthier screen habits among students, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced that from January 2026, secondary school students will not be permitted to use smartphones or smartwatches during school hours, including breaks and co-curricular activities.
New Guidelines Rollout
The enhanced measures, unveiled on 30 November 2024, expand existing restrictions that previously applied only during lesson time. All devices will be required to remain in designated storage areas or kept in students’ school bags.
- No device usage during recess or non-lesson times.
- Permission to use devices will be granted only by exception.
- These guidelines align with restrictions already imposed on primary school pupils since January 2025.
Supporting Healthy Digital Habits
MOE stated that schools adopting stricter guidelines have seen benefits such as improved student well-being, increased focus, and enhanced physical interaction during breaks. Minister of State for Education Jasmin Lau emphasised the need for a balanced approach to technology’s role in education.
Device Management Adjustments
As part of this initiative, the default sleep setting for personal learning devices will be moved to 10:30 p.m., encouraging students to engage in better device management before bedtime. This follows a national health promotion strategy, Grow Well SG, which aims to help children develop healthier lifestyle habits.
Focus on Parental Involvement
MOE notes that while the new guidelines are stringent, schools retain the flexibility to tailor their discipline policies to best suit their unique student profiles. Parents are encouraged to engage with the new measures and help students comprehend the importance of responsible device usage.
Future Steps
More details about the implementation of these guidelines will be communicated through various channels, including student handbooks and parent briefings, as schools welcome students back for the new academic year.
With the increasing prevalence of digital devices in children’s lives, these guidelines aim to forge a path toward responsible screen use while fostering healthier interactions both in and out of the classroom.