New Zealand Prepares for National Cell Phone Ban in Schools

Low literacy and numeracy rates among students are a key driver behind the move to limit cell phone use.

Teenagers use cellphones after school time on March 30, 2010. Olivier Morin/AFP/Getty Images

In a move that marks a departure from previous education policies, New Zealand’s new tri-party coalition government, led by National Party Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, has reaffirmed its comprehensive ban on cell phones in all primary, intermediate, and secondary schools.

The decision is a part of the coalition’s ambitious 100-day rollout plan, which includes 49 other actions aimed at reforming various sectors, as well as the actions of the previous Ardern Labour government.