Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province have implemented a sweeping ban on smartphones in schools and religious institutions, citing concerns over educational focus and adherence to Islamic law. The new directive applies to students, teachers, and administrative staff across all schools and madrassas.
According to the provincial Education Department, the ban was introduced to promote “discipline and focus” in the classroom and prevent what officials called “the destruction of the future generation.” The decision was framed as being rooted in a Sharia-based approach.
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Teachers and students confirmed compliance with the new rule, though reactions have been mixed. Some educators, like 22-year-old Saeed Ahmad, welcomed the move, saying it would reduce distractions and improve concentration during lessons.
However, others expressed concern over the practical impact of the ban, especially in a country where access to educational resources is already limited. Students highlighted the loss of learning aids like capturing notes from the board as a setback. “This decision will negatively affect our studies,” said one 12th-grade student.
The ban is now fully enforced in both general and religious schools across Kandahar, further limiting students’ access to digital tools in an already restrictive educational environment.
