Limiting Gadget Use in Schools Expected to Boost Interaction and Reading Habits

Jakarta Education Agency Head Nahdiana has urged students to use break times and free periods at school to interact directly with their peers, following the issuance of a circular limiting gadget use on school grounds.

To revive social interaction among students

She said the policy aims to revive social interaction among students, which has declined due to increased gadget use.

Legislator Supports Restricting Social Media Access for Students

"Break time can be used to chat with friends. Students are also encouraged to read before class, then share stories about the books they've read," Nahdiana said on Friday (4/24).

She hopes the restriction will not only improve social interaction but also boost students' interest in reading.

Jakarta Council Commission E Chair Subki also backed the policy, saying restrictions on gadget use should extend to the home environment.

"If gadget use is already limited at school, it should not continue unchecked at home," he said.

He stressed that family support is crucial to the policy's success. Without parental involvement, school-level measures would not be effective.

"Parents play a key role. If it is applied at school but not at home, it will not be effective," he added.

He also expressed hope that the policy would protect students from exposure to harmful content, including material that could lead to radicalization.

The policy is set out in Circular No. e-0001/SE/2026 issued by the Jakarta Education Agency, restricting gadget use in schools.

Under the policy, mobile phones and tablets must be switched off and stored in designated areas during class hours, except for learning purposes. Schools must also provide a contact point for parents in case of emergencies.