SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 6 Feb (EUROPA PRESS) –
All seven factions in the Canary Islands Parliament – PSOE, CC, PP, NC-BC, Vox, ASG and AHI – have thrown their support behind the Canary Islands Government’s decision to limit the use of mobile devices in educational institutions to purely pedagogical purposes.
Speaking in the Plenary Session of Parliament, the Minister of Education, Poli Suárez, stated that the Government could not “turn a blind eye” and out of “responsibility,” requested a report from the Canary Islands School Council which recommended the prohibition of mobile phones in Infant, Primary, ESO, and basic FP stages throughout the school day.
The minister emphasized the “risks” of “inappropriate or excessive” use, such as mental health issues, increased bullying, or access to pornography, “at increasingly younger ages.”
She praised the consensus on the measure and the “exemplary” approach of the Canary Islands in collaborating with the School Council and the education community. She also noted that at a school in Gran Canaria, where the measure was implemented, “coexistence has improved.”
However, she stressed that the intention is not to “ban for the sake of banning,” as it is also important to promote the development of digital skills. She also acknowledged that the deputies themselves frequently check their mobile phones during plenary sessions.
Sonsoles Martín (PP) commended the minister for the measure, stating that it will be an “essential tool to harness the benefits of these devices and, at the same time, mitigate the negative situations that may arise from their improper use.”
Raúl Acosta (AHI) emphasized the importance of distinguishing between “educational and recreational use,” while Melodie Mendoza (ASG) focused on the “addiction” that may affect secondary school students.
In this context, she stressed the need to educate on the “safe parameters” of digitalization and promote “responsible consumption.”
Marta Gómez (Vox) praised the minister for being “courageous” in proposing limitations on cell phones, and now believes that the next step is for institutions to provide technological means to students and “disabled” students to prevent inappropriate use.
DISPARITY BETWEEN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS
She raised concerns about the “disparity” between public and private institutions, as some families can afford the equipment while others cannot. She also called for uniform criteria with penalties for non-compliant students.
Carmen Hernández (NC-BC) acknowledged this as a “contentious and complex issue” requiring measures to address concerns of social isolation, reduced physical activity, or difficulties in social interaction, stressing the importance of simultaneously learning digital skills.
“You can’t just fence off the field,” she remarked, stating her group’s support for a “consensual regulation” with all parties involved.
Miguel Martín (CC) advocated for “digitalization” as today’s youths are “digital natives,” emphasizing the need to support learning for “appropriate and relevant use.”
Marcos Hernández, from the Socialist Group, described the mobile phone as a “wonderful tool” which can be hindered by “negligent use” in the classroom. He emphasized the need to establish a “healthy and balanced regulation” to ensure it does not remain a mere “declaration of intent.”
