Mexico to restrict smartphone use in schools — Cyprus Mail

Mexico will introduce nationwide rules from November 3 that will restrict the use of mobile phones and tablets in public primary and secondary schools throughout the school day. The decision was made amid concerns about the impact of screen time on children.

Rules for public schools

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that state education officials had reached a consensus on the new restrictions. According to Cyprus Mail, the rules will apply across the public education system and concern primary and secondary school students.

A different approach is envisaged for upper secondary schools: they will determine the restrictions independently so that devices are used safely, responsibly and for educational purposes. Universities will be recommended to encourage responsible device use to foster digital citizenship based on ethics and critical thinking.

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Purpose of the new restrictions

Education Minister Mario Delgado said the agreement is intended to help protect the rights of children, adolescents and young people, their mental health, learning and overall development. According to him, it is also meant to strengthen attention, direct communication and a sense of community.

Global trend

Mexico is joining countries seeking to define more clearly the limits of children’s access to mobile phones and social media. The report also notes that Australia last year became the first country to ban social media for children under 16, while other countries began introducing similar measures in 2026.