Portugal’s education authorities announced on Monday that the existing ban on mobile phone use in schools has been extended to cover pupils through the 9th grade, effectively prohibiting devices for children up to about 15 years old. The move follows a wave of policy actions across Europe aimed at curbing digital distraction in classrooms, and comes as a new poll shows unprecedented public backing for school‑phone restrictions.
Extension of the ban
According to Correio da Manhã, the decree now applies to all compulsory‑education levels, from primary through to the 9th year of secondary school. The Ministry of Education will enforce the rule in both public and private institutions, with school administrators required to adopt monitoring procedures and to impose penalties for non‑compliance. While the exact disciplinary measures were not detailed, officials indicated that schools will receive guidance on how to handle violations consistently.
The policy aims to address concerns that smartphones distract students, undermine teacher authority, and contribute to mental‑health issues linked to excessive screen time. Education officials have repeatedly cited research suggesting that uninterrupted classroom time improves academic performance and social interaction among peers. By extending the ban, the government hopes to create a more focused learning environment during the critical years leading up to national exams.
"The ban now applies to students up to 15 years old, covering the entire compulsory education period," the Portuguese outlet reported.
Public sentiment and international trends
Scripps News highlighted a recent international survey that found support for school cellphone bans has climbed to a new high. Though the poll’s exact figures were not disclosed, the report noted that a majority of respondents across multiple countries favor stricter rules on device use during school hours. The findings align with growing parental and teacher advocacy for limits on mobile technology in education settings.
In Portugal, teachers’ unions have largely welcomed the extension, arguing that it will help re‑establish classroom discipline. Some parent groups, however, expressed apprehension that the ban could hinder communication in emergencies and limit access to educational apps. Student reactions have been mixed; while a segment of youths view the measure as an infringement on personal freedom, others acknowledge the potential for fewer interruptions.
The Portuguese decision mirrors similar actions in nations such as France, Italy and the United Kingdom, where schools have either imposed total bans or restricted phone use to specific periods. Analysts suggest that the convergence of policy and public opinion may signal a broader shift toward re‑evaluating the role of personal devices in formal education.
As the ban takes effect this academic year, the Ministry of Education plans to monitor its impact on attendance, test scores and disciplinary incidents. Officials indicated that data collected will inform possible refinements to the rule and could influence future legislation concerning digital tools in schools throughout the European Union.
