In response to the escalating issue of digital-school bullying, the Ministry of Education has announced a crackdown on mobile phone use within Greece's schools, with penalties including potential permanent expulsion for offenders.
The prevalence of mobile phones among students has become a significant distraction in classrooms, exacerbating problems related to bullying and misconduct. Minister of Education Kyriakos Pierrakakis emphasised the need for decisive action, stating, "We will have to look at the context of the consequences."
Students caught posting videos on social media that expose or mock fellow students during school hours now face severe consequences, including permanent expulsion from school. Pierrakakis stressed that such measures aim to create safer school environments.
In a move to align with European practices, particularly those observed in Denmark, the Ministry plans to implement a "penalty protocol" to enforce the ban on mobile phones in schools. Under this protocol, specific penalties will correspond to different offences, with the objective of providing clearer guidelines for teachers and ensuring consistent disciplinary actions.
As outlined in the Ministry's circular regarding mobile phone use in schools,
Students are prohibited from possessing mobile phones within school premises.
Additionally, students are forbidden from having any other electronic devices or games with video and audio processing systems on school grounds.
Schools will provide necessary equipment for educational purposes, which students may only use under teacher supervision.
By implementing stricter penalties and enforcing the ban on mobile phones, the Ministry of Education seeks to promote a safer and more focused learning environment for students across the country.
This announcement follows the reintroduction of a five-day suspension as part of the penalties framework announced by the Education Minister last week.
(Source: In.gr)
