Bolivia began implementing a ban on cellphones in classrooms on Monday, the start of the school year in the landlocked South American country, with the new rules applying to students of all ages. Under the measure, children and teachers are expected to keep their cellphones in lockers or in their bags while classes are in session, in both public and private schools.
The policy comes as several other countries have already imposed phone bans in schools to reduce distractions and increase students’ attention, according to the Associated Press report. AP cited examples including Brazil, France and South Korea as nations that have implemented similar restrictions.
Bolivia’s decision also aligns with the government transition that took place late last year. The cellphone ban was drafted under the administration of Rodrigo Paz, a centrist who won the election and took office in November after two decades of rule by the left-wing Movement Toward Socialism.
In remarks Monday, Paz said he does not oppose technology. He described the phone restrictions as separate from the administration’s plan to expand internet access for students, including in rural areas, by using satellites.
Paz spoke during an event in Copacabana, a town on the shores of Lake Titicaca, AP reported. He said: “I will not give you Wi-Fi to watch movies,” and added, “I am going provide connectivity so that pupils can download knowledge.”
AP also reported that the previous Paz administration lifted a ban on foreign-owned internet satellite providers that had been put in place by the prior government. Bolivia has long relied on a Chinese-built satellite, the Tupac Katari, to provide internet in remote areas, but the report said the satellite is getting old and has limited capabilities.
AP noted that Bolivia has some of the lowest internet speeds in the region, a backdrop for Paz’s push to increase connectivity even as the country starts the school year with classroom cellphone restrictions.