Singapore Tightens Mobile Phone Restrictions in Secondary Schools Starting January 2026

Starting today—January 1, 2026—secondary school students across Singapore are subject to stricter rules on the use of smartphones and smartwatches, as part of a nationwide initiative by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to safeguard students’ mental and physical well-being.

Under the new policy, students are prohibited from using personal mobile devices—including smartphones and smartwatches—not only during class hours but also throughout all other times on campus, such as recess breaks and co-curricular activities (CCAs). Devices must be stored in designated areas, effectively making schools “phone-free” zones. Exceptions will be granted only under special circumstances and with explicit school approval.

In addition to physical restrictions, MOE has also adjusted digital safeguards on students’ official Personal Learning Devices (PLDs). Effective January 2026, the built-in management app will automatically disable device functionality at 10:30 PM, 30 minutes earlier than the previous 11:00 PM cutoff. This change aims to encourage healthier sleep habits by ensuring students have sufficient screen-free time before bed, thereby improving sleep quality.

The measures reflect Singapore’s ongoing efforts to balance technology use with adolescent development, minimizing distractions while fostering focus, social interaction, and restorative rest during critical formative years.