The Anambra State Government has officially prohibited the use of mobile phones by secondary school students across the state.
Chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu, announced the directive during the Anambra Schools’ Cultural Day celebration on Friday in Awka.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Ikediugwu instructed school principals and teachers to confiscate any mobile phones found with students, emphasizing that the move aims to minimize distractions and improve academic performance.
Highlighting the need for discipline in learning environments, she noted that the increasing use of mobile devices during school hours had become a major hindrance to students’ studies.
“I am authorising principals and teachers to seize phones from students who come to school with them so that we can ensure that students concentrate on their academic work without the interference of phones,” she stated.
She further commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration for its substantial investment in education, aimed at fostering academic excellence and instilling discipline among students.
Beyond the policy on mobile phones, Ikediugwu also stressed the importance of preserving Igbo cultural values, describing them as a significant aspect of the people’s identity.
“Igbo culture extends beyond clothing and dancing, as the Igbos are also known for their honesty, truthfulness, hard work, respect for elders, and many other admirable qualities.
“It is important to continuously educate our students on the values and norms of Ndigbo, to preserve the rich heritage of the Igbo people,” she added.