New Zealand's new tri-party coalition government, led by National Party Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, introduced a national cell phone ban in all primary, intermediate, and secondary schools to promote academic excellence.
The ban authorizes all cell phones to remain off throughout the school day, including during breaks between classes.
New Zealand Introduces National Cell Phone Ban in Schools
The comprehensive ban on cell phones was a part of the coalition's ambitious 100-day rollout plan, which includes 49 other actions aimed at reforming various sectors, as well as the actions of the previous Ardern Labour government.
The government said that cell phones should not be a part of the daily school environment unless used for educational purposes as part of a student's schoolwork.
On August 9, Luxon released a statement on the National Party website reiterating the importance of this move for education outcomes.
He said that the policy was about ensuring that their schools were environments where students could focus on learning without the distractions that cell phones could bring. He added that he believes in creating a learning space that promotes interaction, focus, and academic excellence.
Schools were given the autonomy to decide how to enforce the ban practically. This approach was designed to ensure that the policy can be adapted to each school's unique needs and circumstances.
The government noted that parents and guardian could contact their children during school hours through the school office to ease concerns about communication, especially in emergencies.
Furthermore, students who require cell phones for health reasons will be granted an exemption from the ban. Students who struggle with learning and need to use cell phones in their educational process will also be eligible for exemptions.
According to Horizons Research Poll, New Zealanders supported the ban during class but not during school breaks or lunch.
The poll found that 61 percent supported a ban, but not during breaks, with 20 percent opposed.
About 56 percent supported a whole-day ban, while 52 percent thought schools should be left to decide on their bans.
Only 19 percent believed there should be no ban, with 60 percent opposing the idea. Other countries, including Australia, France, and Greece, have also passed a cell phone ban in schools.
Luxon Repeal Tobacco Restrictions
Many of the actions in the 100-day plan include repealing tobacco restrictions approved last year by the previous government. The tobacco restrictions had requirements for low nicotine levels in cigarettes, fewer retailers, and a lifetime ban for youth.
Luxon said that ending the tobacco restrictions, which were not due to take effect until next year, would bring in more tax dollars. However, he said it was not a case of trading health for money.
"We are going to continue to drive smoking rates down across New Zealand under our government," he said as he decided to stick with the status quo.
Some critics noted that the plan was a setback for public health and a win for the tobacco industry.
