Proposed Ban on Electronic Devices in Schools
A draft law, registered as No. 15105, has been submitted to Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada. It proposes prohibiting students from using mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches during school lessons, except when required for educational or medical purposes. The bill's author is Georgii Mazurashu, a member of parliament from the 'Servant of the People' party. Educational Ombudsman Nadiia Leshchyk noted she is awaiting the publication of the full text, which could set new rules for device usage for all participants in the educational process.
Georgii Mazurashu, who in 2025 was ranked by the 'Chestno' movement as the top MP for legislative spam, has previously proposed establishing a national Day of the Bible in Ukraine and adding the phrase 'We Believe in God' to banknotes. His new bill has sparked debate among education professionals and parents, who question the appropriateness of such restrictions. This initiative reflects a growing global debate about technology's role in the classroom.
Educational Initiatives and Their Impact
Separately, Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science, together with animal rights activists, is launching an educational initiative focused on animal welfare. The program envisions the active involvement of schools, child services, and the National Police in fostering responsible attitudes toward pets and aiding stray animals. It is also important to note that the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved changes to the procedure for registering children of preschool and school age, which may also affect educational activities in the country.
Commenting on the situation, Nadiia Leshchyk stated: 'finding a solution is currently difficult.'
This remark underscores the complexity of regulating electronic device use in education and the need to find a balance between modern technology and traditional teaching methods.
The proposed ban on electronic devices in schools could significantly alter the educational landscape in Ukraine, generating strong reactions from teachers and parents. As the role of technology in learning becomes increasingly pertinent, it is crucial that any policy changes consider the needs of students and educators, as well as the impact of modern tools on learning effectiveness. Concurrent initiatives, like the animal welfare program, demonstrate a parallel drive to improve the educational environment and cultivate responsible attitudes toward the world.
As discussions about the proposed ban on electronic devices in schools continue, it's essential to consider the broader context of educational reforms in Ukraine. In a related initiative, the Ministry of Education is set to introduce lessons on animal welfare, aiming to foster a sense of responsibility among students. This highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance educational experiences while navigating the challenges posed by technology in the classroom.