Governor Chadchart announced measures to control the use of mobile phones and digital devices in classrooms of Bangkok schools starting next academic year to create a balanced learning environment and reduce the negative effects of excessive screen time.
On 13 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Governor Chadchart Sitthiphan of Bangkok announced proactive measures to regulate and supervise the use of digital devices (mobile phones and electronic gadgets) in Bangkok schools under the "Phone Off, Learning On: Focus on Learning, Leave Your Phone with the Teacher" project. This aims to foster an effective learning environment and prevent health and behavioral issues from unnecessary screen time. The announcement was made at Wat Suttharam Secondary School in Khlong San district on 12 Mar.
Governor Chadchart stated that this generation is the first to have digital technology play a significant role in their lives. Bangkok recognizes the need to establish proper usage foundations and has thus set a “digital device usage control measure,” similar to policies in many other countries. The key reasons for controlling device use include decreased peer interaction, reduced interest in learning, increased time spent in virtual worlds, and rising obesity due to lack of exercise. To establish a consistent standard, these measures will be implemented in Bangkok schools. Teachers will authorize device use only in subjects where digital tools are necessary. For emergencies, parents can contact the school via Line or phone. This policy will take effect starting the next academic year.
Project "Phone Off, Learning On: Focus on Learning, Leave Your Phone with the Teacher" has three main principles:
1. Purposeful Learning: Encourage using digital devices as "learning tools" under teachers’ supervision during appropriate class sessions, rather than for aimless entertainment.
2. Well-being and Social Development: Establish Digital-Free Zones during certain times, such as lunch breaks or communal areas, to promote student social interaction, physical activity, and rest from screen exposure.
3. Cyber Safety: Implement monitoring systems to prevent online bullying and access to inappropriate content within schools.
Additionally, the UNESCO GEM report highlights relevant issues linking mobile phones and electronic devices with children, such as the 2024 Oxford Dictionary’s new terms “doomscrolling” and “brain-rot,” reflecting problems from excessive social media use driven by AI algorithms. The 2023 UNESCO GEM report notes that technology aids learning only in certain contexts and when used properly; overuse can harm learning. Studies show smartphones in classrooms can disrupt learning, while their removal in countries like Belgium, Spain, and the UK has improved academic results, especially for lower-performing students.