The Irish government’s decision to spend €9 million on locking away students’ phones during school hours has sparked outrage among teachers. The funding, announced in the recent Budget, aims to create “smartphone-free” secondary schools across the country.
According to The Journal, schools will have the option to buy magnetic pouches or electronic lockers to store students’ phones during the day. The government hopes to roll out this measure before the end of the 2024/2025 school year.
While students can still bring phones to school for safety during their commute, they won’t be able to use them in class. However, many educators argue that this money could be better spent on more pressing needs in the education system.
John Boyle, general secretary of the Irish National Teachers Organisation, called the decision “tone deaf,” pointing out that primary schools are desperately in need of funding. The Teachers’ Union of Ireland also criticized the move, emphasizing that schools face numerous challenges that require immediate attention.
Critics worry that teenagers will find ways to bypass the restrictions, rendering the expensive equipment useless. Some argue that the €9 million could be better invested in addressing the increasing range of challenges faced by young people in schools.
As Ireland grapples with how to manage technology in the classroom, this controversial decision has ignited a heated debate about priorities in education spending.