Virendra Pandit
New Delhi: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s attempt to ban the use of mobile phones in classrooms may have backfired, the media reported on Tuesday.
He found himself at the center of ridicule and criticism after he shared a video on social media promoting the ban on mobile phones in schools. His video drew widespread mockery on social media and jabs from political rivals.
According to a survey, 97 percent of British school kids own smartphones by the time they turn 12.
In a 50-second clip posted on X (formerly Twitter), PM Sunak mimicked being constantly interrupted by his phone ringing, to demonstrate how mobile phones can cause distraction in classrooms.
“Almost one-third of secondary school pupils said their lessons were disrupted by phones,” he said in the clip.
“We know that they are a distraction in the classroom and cause bullying in schools. Many schools have already banned them, which has led to a safer and better learning environment for their students. Now we’re publishing new guidance so other schools have the support they need to do the same. We’re making sure our children receive the education that they deserve.”
However, the video did not receive the intended response. Social media users called the clip ‘cringeworthy’ and likened Sunak’s acting skills to “GCSE drama.”
The main opposition, the Labour Party, seized the opportunity and released a parody video where Sunak checks his phone, revealing mock notifications about the country’s recession, NHS waiting lists, and immigration challenges.
The British government stated the new guidance for schools is intended to “minimize disruption and improve behavior.” Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said there is an urgent need for “consistency” and resetting the “social norm” against the use of mobile phones in schools.
The guidance offers schools flexibility in implementing the ban, ranging from leaving phones at home, handing them in upon arrival, or keeping them in inaccessible lockers, provided they are not used or heard.
This move comes amid growing concerns over the distraction caused by smartphones, which, according to Ofcom data, are owned by 97 percent of children by the age of 12.
The potential for bullying and access to harmful content via mobile phones has also been a significant concern.