Education Minister Barbara Nowacka announced a nationwide ban on cell phone use in Polish primary schools from September 1, 2026, following a discussion with Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Minister Nowacka Announces New Regulations
Barbara Nowacka held a press conference in Olsztyn on Wednesday, March 18th, to discuss ongoing work at the Ministry of National Education (MEN) on the National Youth Strategy. This strategy will incorporate findings and recommendations from the “Youth Diagnosis 2026” report, a comprehensive document exceeding 450 pages detailing the state of young people in Poland.
The Minister indicated the strategy is expected to be completed by the end of autumn, but emphasized the need for immediate action on certain issues.
Cell Phone Ban Effective September 2026
“At the ministry, we are finalizing work on a major legislative change, very important for schools, which will result in a ban on the use of mobile phones in primary schools from September 1, 2026,” stated the Minister. She clarified that this decision was expedited after her conversation with Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Exceptions and Concerns Regarding Digital Addiction
Nowacka added that the new regulations will prevent children from using phones during lessons and breaks. Devices will only be permitted in justified cases, such as for health reasons or as part of the educational process, but not as a standard practice, given concerns about children’s internet addiction.
Report Highlights Harmful Effects of Phone and Internet Use
According to the report, 71% of adolescents believe they are addicted to their phones, 60% experience chronic fatigue, 44% struggle to distinguish truth from falsehood online, and 47% of those aged 13-16 have encountered harmful content on the internet and social media.
Digital Hygiene and Curriculum Changes
The Minister noted that digital hygiene will be integrated into schools alongside changes to the core curriculum. However, she reiterated the urgency of the cell phone ban in primary schools, effective September 1, 2026.
