Beginning April 29th, New Zealand schools will implement a rule banning phones throughout the day. The decision has sparked discussions, with people sharing differing opinions on its effectiveness and practicality.

Support for the ban has been expressed widely on social media, with many welcoming the change as positive. Comments like “Fantastic,” “About time,” and “Great news” reflect the relief and hope for improved learning environments. Advocates believe the ban will reduce distractions, increase focus, and potentially address issues like cyberbullying.

However, there are also doubts about how effective the ban will be. Some question whether students will find ways to bypass it, especially considering the prevalence of Bring Your Device (BYOD) policies in schools. Critics argue that even with BYOD, students can access social media through other means, rendering the ban ineffective.

Additionally, concerns have been raised about the necessity of phones for certain students, such as for communication or emergencies. Instead of a blanket ban, some suggest educating students about responsible phone usage and addressing underlying issues like bullying.

Teachers have also expressed concerns about enforcing the ban and potential conflicts with students.