Education officials are considering banning mobile phone use in all Thai classrooms, following a new initiative announced in Bangkok aimed at improving learning conditions. The proposed measures seek to reduce distractions and limit the health and behavioural impacts linked to excessive screen time. If adopted, changes would begin in the 2026 academic year.
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The move follows Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s programme, “Phone Off, Learning On: Focus on Learning, Leave Your Phone with the Teacher”. The initiative is designed to create a more effective classroom environment by encouraging students to disengage from their devices during lessons. Several schools under the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) have already introduced similar restrictions.
On 16 March 2026, Dr Pichet Phoophakdee, Secretary-General of OBEC, said schools currently have discretion to decide how to manage mobile phone use. He noted that administrators and teachers are best placed to determine appropriate rules based on their specific contexts. He also confirmed that the issue will be raised at an upcoming OBEC executive meeting involving senior officials and department directors.
Dr Pichet stated that students should focus fully on their studies during lessons rather than being distracted by mobile phones. He added that teachers should also avoid using phones while teaching in order to maintain attention in the classroom. Under potential measures, teachers could collect phones at the start of lessons and return them during lunch breaks or after school.
He also noted that exceptions could be allowed in urgent situations on a case-by-case basis. The forthcoming OBEC meeting will gather input from various stakeholders before any formal policy is announced. Authorities are expected to communicate the outcome publicly once discussions are complete.
The proposal reflects growing concern among education officials about the impact of digital devices on student concentration and behaviour. It also aligns with broader efforts to improve academic focus and classroom discipline. Schools that have already implemented restrictions may serve as models for wider adoption.
ThaiRath reported that further deliberations at OBEC level will determine whether a standardised policy is introduced nationwide or whether schools will continue to operate independently. Any confirmed measures are expected to take effect during the 2026 academic year.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 18 Mar 2026
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