By Amos Ssemuwemba
In a bid to strike a balance between technology integration and academic focus, the Ministry of Education and Sports has reaffirmed its stance on mobile phone use in schools. Following the launch of its Digital Agenda Strategy, the Ministry has clarified that handheld mobile devices, such as phones and tablets, are not permitted for use by learners on school premises.
According to Dennis Mugimba, the Ministry’s spokesperson, the decision aims to prevent distractions, academic dishonesty, cyber bullying, and social isolation, which can hinder students’ academic performance and well-being. While the Ministry’s Digital Agenda Strategy seeks to enhance the use of electronic tools in education, comprehensive Policy Standards and Guidelines are being developed to regulate the use of digital tools in schools.
“The Ministry is in the process of developing comprehensive Policy Standards and Guidelines to regulate the use of digital tools in educational settings. These forthcoming guidelines will outline the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders, including schools, teachers, learners, parents, and internet service providers”, Mugimba said.
Until then, desktops and laptops in computer laboratories will remain the preferred digital tools for students. The Ministry is committed to ensuring digital information security and online safety for students, requiring schools to adhere to Uganda’s Computer Misuse Act, 2011.
The effects of mobile device use in schools, including distractions, academic dishonesty, cyber bullying, and social isolation, have led the Ministry to take a cautious approach to integrating technology in education. By finding a balance between technology use and academic focus, the Ministry aims to create a conducive learning environment for all students.
