Starting January 2026, more than 500 schools across Ho Chi Minh City, including secondary schools, high schools, and vocational education centers, will officially restrict mobile phone use by students during break times. The move aims to promote physical activity and increase face-to-face social interaction among students.
The new regulations were recently issued by the city Department of Education and Training (DOET), under which the city's education sector will officially minimize the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices by students during recess.
The DOET emphasized that the new policy focuses on guiding student behavior and fostering positive habits. It is intended as a constructive adjustment rather than an extreme or absolute ban.
Instead of relying on digital devices, students are encouraged to engage in a diverse range of physical activities.
)For academic or research purposes, schools will still allow the use of electronic devices, provided there is teacher approval. Such activities must take place in designated areas under direct supervision, ensuring discipline without being overly restrictive for students.
The DOET discourages passive and isolated device usage, such as playing solo games, scrolling through social media, or watching long videos without interaction.
The Department also requested that schools develop their own internal regulations, clearly defining the specific areas, times, and formats for phone use. Schools are expected to assign teachers and support staff to monitor students during breaks and are strictly prohibited from confiscating or handling devices in a manner that violates legal regulations.
According to a report by the DOET, the restriction on phone use during recess was piloted in 16 schools starting in October 2025. The pilot program recorded significant improvements in student behavior and the overall school atmosphere.
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