Georgia is introducing new rules for smartphone use in schools

The Georgian Ministry of Education, Science, and Youth has officially approved new uniform guidelines for the use of electronic devices in the country’s general education institutions. The use of such devices will be permitted only in exceptional cases.

The adopted document clearly regulates the conditions for students’ use of mobile phones, smartphones, and smartwatches directly during the educational process. The document also establishes a new format for communication with parents and sets strict requirements for school administrations regarding the secure storage of devices. In accordance with this order, all schools in the country are required to set up special secure storage areas for students’ personal electronic devices by September 1, 2026.

Under the new rules, any unauthorized use of electronic communication devices during class is now strictly prohibited. This includes carrying devices on one’s person, leaving them turned on on desks, or using them without prior approval from an authorized person, unless otherwise specified in the school’s internal regulations. Official use of gadgets during class will be permitted only in exceptional cases, including:

• Use of devices strictly for educational purposes with the direct permission of the administration or a teacher.

• The presence of documented medical indications for the child (for example, to monitor blood sugar levels).

• The occurrence of emergency or force majeure situations requiring an immediate response.

• The student having officially confirmed special or individual educational needs.

The reform places special emphasis on collaboration with students’ families. Any communication between students and parents during class must now take place exclusively through the school’s officially established communication channels—landline phones, corporate email, or the school’s internal electronic systems. School administrations are required to promptly appoint specific officials responsible for collecting, storing, and returning devices to students, as well as to thoroughly familiarize parents with the new disciplinary rules at the first general meeting at the start of the new school year.