The Czech Republic is preparing to adopt a legislative initiative that will radically change the rules of conduct for students in educational institutions. The country's government plans to ban the use of mobile phones in schools, aiming to restore students' ability to concentrate and engage in face-to-face communication.

Initiative from the Prime Minister

The bill was introduced to parliament at the initiative of Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Minister of Education Robert Plaga. With the active support of the head of government, the proposal quickly received the approval of the cabinet of ministers. The document is aimed at systematizing the rules for using gadgets, which were previously regulated in a fragmented manner.

Where and when phones cannot be used

According to the text of the bill, the restrictions will be comprehensive. The ban on using smartphones will apply not only during lessons but will also extend to:

  • recess breaks;
  • school cafeterias;
  • kindergartens;
  • extracurricular activities within the school walls.

However, legislators have provided flexibility regarding pedagogy. Teachers retain the right to allow the use of phones during classes if it serves educational purposes.

Exceptions and student health

The draft law clearly outlines cases where the use of devices remains permitted. Students who need to use a phone for the following purposes are exempt from the ban:

  • monitoring their health status;
  • receiving academic support (for students with disabilities);
  • participating in excursions and off-site events.

Responsibility is transferred to schools

The project does not provide a single rigid method for managing mobile phones. Instead, each educational institution has the right to independently decide how exactly to implement the ban. Schools may require students to store phones in personal lockers or hand them over to a designated person. Educational institutions will also develop their own rules for handling violations.

Goals of the reform: concentration and communication

According to the Czech government, the new policy is aimed at improving concentration, increasing academic performance, and creating a more positive school atmosphere. Minister of Education Robert Plaga emphasized that the ban is not aimed at completely excluding technology from education, but rather at promoting its reasonable, safe, and purposeful use.

The government also called on schools to organize more activities during breaks to encourage students to communicate more closely face-to-face instead of using electronic devices.

Public resonance and international experience

Previously, starting in 2021, school directors in the Czech Republic were allowed to restrict students' use of mobile phones. However, the implementation of this rule in different schools was inconsistent. According to a survey by Expats.cz conducted in 2025, almost 80% of parents and teachers support the ban on using electronic devices during lessons, and more than 70% want a unified policy across the country.

The Czech government stated that the new rules were developed based on the experience of several European countries, such as France and the Netherlands. Meanwhile, the opposition claims that the ban may hinder the development of digital skills among students.