Taliban enforces smartphone ban in Kandahar schools

Taliban enforces smartphone ban in Kandahar schools
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Taliban authorities in southern Afghanistan have enforced a ban on smartphones in schools and religious institutions across Kandahar province, media outlets reported. The directive, issued by the provincial Education Department, applies to students, teachers, and administrative staff, citing the need to maintain educational focus and uphold Islamic law.

Officials said the decision was made to prevent distractions and protect the “future generation,” aligning with a “sharia perspective.” While some teachers and students support the move, believing it improves classroom discipline, others express concern over its impact on learning. Students previously used smartphones to photograph lessons for study purposes.

The ban extends to madrassas, with students confirming strict enforcement. The policy follows broader Taliban restrictions, including bans on images of living beings in media and limits on female education. Taliban leaders have also urged officials to reduce smartphone use, with many now switching to basic phones and disabling messaging apps.