This is to draw the attention of the concerned authorities to the growing practice of schools and teachers sending messages and study material through WhatsApp. As a result, students from as early as Class V are increasingly demanding mobile phones, citing the need to download assignments and educational content.
The Education Department should direct schools to discontinue the formation of WhatsApp groups for students, as this creates undue pressure on children who do not own smartphones. It must be noted that many families still do not possess smartphones, or have only one basic mobile phone used by a working parent, often without internet facilities.
Ironically, several schools and higher secondary institutions prohibit students from carrying mobile phones on campus. Given the harmful effects of excessive screen time on young children, the risk of misuse, and the financial burden on parents, the Education Department should issue clear guidelines on whether smartphones are essential for students.
A clear policy is urgently needed to address this issue.
