Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has signed a bill banning smartphones in schools, a major step toward reducing excessive screen time among students. The measure will take effect in February and is expected to improve attention and learning environments in elementary and high schools across the country.
The law allows mobile phone use only in emergencies, for educational purposes or when required by students with disabilities. This makes Brazil part of a global trend to restrict screen time in schools as concerns grow about its impact on mental health and academic performance.
According to statistics, smartphone usage is very high in Brazil. In May, Fundacao Getulio Vargas reported that 258 million people in the country own smartphones, compared to its population of 203 million. In addition, Brazilians spend 9 hours and 13 minutes a day on screens; this is also one of the highest rates in the world.
Education Minister Camilo Santana said this regulation is very important because children are being exposed to online content at an early age, making it challenging for parents to monitor their activities. He believes that banning smartphone use in schools will help families manage their children's digital habits.
It has received overwhelming public support. A Datafolha survey conducted in October found that nearly two-thirds of interviewees were in favor of a ban on smartphone use in schools, and more than three-quarters of them said smartphones were harmful rather than beneficial for their children.
Parents and teachers widely applaud the measure, seeing it as a step toward improving students’ attention, social interaction, and overall well-being. As Brazil adopts this initiative, it joins other countries prioritizing students’ education and mental health over excessive digital engagement.
