Starting in August, schools in Vantaa will enforce a new policy that prohibits upper secondary students from using mobile phones during school hours. This follows a similar restriction that has been in place for lower secondary school students since last autumn. The decision to extend this ban to upper secondary students is part of a broader initiative by the municipality that emphasizes reducing mobile device usage in schools, despite allowing use during breaks previously.

Vantaa's approach is stricter than a new national law regarding student mobile device usage that came into effect this fall. In a statement, the city of Vantaa noted that data collected over the past year suggests that limiting device use can enhance students' well-being and streamline the educational process. Ilkka Kalo, the head of basic education in Vantaa, highlighted that the aim of this prohibition is to encourage a more active lifestyle among students, foster recovery from lessons, improve social interactions, and protect brain health.

The introduction of this policy reflects a growing recognition of the potential negative impacts of mobile device usage on young people's mental health and academic performance. The municipality is keen to base its initiatives on evidence and data, aiming for an educational environment that supports students' health and learning experiences. This policy shift signifies a proactive stance toward managing technology's role in education and promoting a healthier school atmosphere for all students in Vantaa.