Muhammadiyah 22 Junior High School in South Tangerang Implements Gadget Restrictions Following Ministerial Circular
SMP Muhammadiyah (SMP-M) 22 Pamulang, South Tangerang, has officially implemented Circular Letter (SE) Number 18 of 2026 from the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) regarding the Restriction of Gadget Use in Educational Units. This policy began to be socialised and enforced during the School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year last July.
The Head of SMPM 22 Pamulang, Ikhsan, explained that MPLS is an important momentum for new students to get to know the school culture while building character. According to him, restricting gadgets aligns with the school’s efforts to instil the noble values of Muhammadiyah, faith, knowledge, and charity.
"MPLS is the initial gateway for students to transform. Through this activity, students are not only introduced to physical facilities and the curriculum, but are also accustomed to the rules of using technology wisely," Ikhsan told Media Indonesia on Monday (3/8).
Ikhsan emphasised that this policy does not mean a total ban on the use of technology, but rather limits its use so as not to disrupt Teaching and Learning Activities (KBM). The technical implementation is carried out by collecting students’ gadgets every morning in a special box managed by the Homeroom Teacher (Walas).
"Every morning in class, they are guided in tadarus, and gadgets are collected in the Homeroom Teacher’s box. If there is a KBM that requires a gadget, the subject teacher is responsible for taking and returning it. Students are only allowed to take back their gadgets at school dismissal time or for urgent needs," he explained.
During the MPLS period, the school also presented a speaker from the Ministry’s Puspeka to provide material related to bullying and digital literacy. In addition, the Special Staff of the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Rita Pranawati, also attended to provide material on the "7 Habits of Great Indonesian Children" (KAIH) and the ethics of gadget use.
A similar step was also implemented by SMA Muhammadiyah 24 Pamulang. The Head of SMA Muhammadiyah 24, Hartono, stated that the implementation of the Ministerial Circular ran smoothly in his environment. All student gadgets must be stored in a place provided by the school.
"Gadgets may only be used if there is a direct instruction from the teacher for learning purposes. With this restriction, students can focus more on learning and social interaction between students becomes more optimal," said Hartono.
He added that this policy is very effective in protecting students from the negative impacts of digital content. "Our students can also avoid digital waste and viruses that can damage their concentration and morale," he concluded.