Education Ministry Issues Circular Restricting Gadget Use in Schools
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has issued Circular Number 18 of 2026 on the Restriction of Mobile Device Use in Educational Institutions, in order to encourage wise, safe and responsible use of digital technology by pupils.
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti emphasised that the policy is not intended to prohibit the use of mobile devices, but rather to regulate their use so that it is more targeted and supports the learning process.
“The restriction is not a prohibition, but rather concerns how they use digital technology, particularly mobile devices, wisely, judiciously, and for educational purposes,” said Mu’ti in a written statement in Jakarta on Monday.
Through the circular, the Ministry encourages the creation of a safe and comfortable learning culture, improves pupils’ learning concentration, strengthens social interaction between pupils, supports the Movement of Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children, and protects pupils from the negative impacts of inappropriate device use.
He further stated that the restriction on device use applies during learning activities at educational institutions.
According to Mu’ti, this policy forms part of efforts to protect children from various risks associated with digital technology, such as digital addiction, exposure to negative content, online-based violence, cybersecurity threats, and harm to physical and mental health.
Strengthening digital literacy is also an important element, so that pupils are able to use technology productively and responsibly.
Mu’ti considers the policy highly relevant given the high intensity of internet use in Indonesia.
“If they do not use technology for positive purposes, there will be many problems concerning both mental and physical health. That is why we strongly hope for cooperation between schools, families, communities, and digital service providers,” he said.
Through Circular Number 18 of 2026, heads of educational institutions are encouraged to adapt their school rules on restricting device use according to the characteristics, needs and circumstances of each institution.
This therefore continues to provide room for the use of digital technology as part of the learning process, but with clear regulations.
In addition, teachers and education personnel are expected to set an example in using digital technology wisely, safely and responsibly within the school environment.