Education Ministry Issues Circular Restricting Gadget Use in Schools

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has issued Circular Number 18 of 2026 concerning the Restriction of Gadget Use in Educational Units to encourage the wise, safe, and responsible use of digital technology by students. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti stressed that the policy is not intended to prohibit the use of gadgets, but rather to regulate their use so that it is more targeted and supports the learning process. “This restriction is not a ban, but rather how they use digital technology, especially gadgets, wisely, prudently, and for educational purposes,” Mu’ti said in a written statement in Jakarta on Monday. Through the circular, the ministry is encouraging the creation of a safe and comfortable learning culture, improving students’ learning concentration, strengthening social interaction among students, supporting the Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children Movement, and protecting students from the negative impacts of inappropriate gadget use. He further stated that the restriction on gadget use applies during learning activities within educational units. This policy, Mu’ti said, is part of efforts to protect children from various risks of using digital technology, such as digital addiction, exposure to negative content, online-based violence, cybersecurity threats, and disturbances to physical and mental health. Strengthening digital literacy is also an important part of ensuring students are able to use technology productively and responsibly. Mu’ti considers this policy relevant given the high intensity of internet use in Indonesia. “If they do not use the technology for positive things, then there will be many problems concerning mental and physical health. Therefore, we greatly hope for cooperation between schools, families, communities, and digital service providers,” he said. Through Circular Number 18 of 2026, heads of educational units are encouraged to adjust school rules regarding the restriction of gadget use according to the characteristics, needs, and conditions of each educational unit. This still provides room for the utilisation of digital technology as part of the learning process, but with clear regulations. In addition, educators and education personnel are expected to be role models in using digital technology wisely, safely, and responsibly while within the educational unit environment.