Barbara Nowacka, the Chief of Poland's Ministry of Education and National Training (MEN), has announced that the ministry is finalizing a significant legislative change to restrict mobile phone usage in primary schools. This decision was expedited following a conversation with Prime Minister Donald Tusk, reflecting urgency in addressing issues related to children's dependence on technology. The ban is set to take effect from September 1, 2026.

Nowacka emphasized that the new regulations intend to minimize distractions during lessons, aiming to create a more focused learning environment. However, she clarified that exceptions would be made when mobile phones are deemed necessary for specific educational purposes. In such cases, the teacher will be responsible for making the call on whether or not students can use their devices, marking a blend of structure and flexibility in the approach.

This initiative underscores growing concerns regarding the impact of internet addiction on children, signaling a broader trend in educational policies aimed at safeguarding student well-being. The proposed legislation may also prompt discussions about digital literacy and the role of technology in the classroom, as schools balance the integration of modern educational tools with the need to maintain student discipline and attention.