How can we think of a day without the cellphone? This was the response from students asked to react to the proposed ban on cellphones in schools and colleges. Of course, the school managements were found welcoming the decision.

Many educational institutions have already banned use of cellphones by both students and teachers. “The cellphone keeps you connected to the world and I need to have it with me. However, when it comes to using it in college, it should be permitted if it does not come in the way of studies,” said Gagan, a third year law student.
Echoing similar views, Sreesha M of Acharya Institute of Technology said banning cellphones in the college was not a good decision. “I am from Kerala and there might be situations when I need to contact my family. If cellphones aren’t allowed, How can I get in touch with them? If my family tries to contact me by calling the college, there is a possibility they may not be able to reach me,” she felt.

Siddharth Kamath, a II PU student of Carmel College, said cellphones were permitted in his college but not allowed inside classrooms.

“Cellphones are necessary, mainly in case of emergencies. Only for this reason, I feel it should be allowed inside the campus.”

For Bhavya, a Class V student of Baldwin Girls High School, it’s a good decision. “It’s a distraction as I have seen students either playing or SMSing.  If we have cellphones, we can’t concentrate in the class,” she added. In Bishop Cotton Girls’ School, a circular was sent to parents at the beginning of academic year saying cellphones are not allowed in the school.  “We also pasted the circular on all notice boards besides paying surprise visits to classrooms,” said principal Princess Franklyn.

In some schools, even during emergencies cellphones are forbidden. In Ryan International School, Kundanahalli, parents can either contact schools directly or get in touch with teachers.

In some colleges, cellphones are strictly banned. If students are caught using them, they’ll have to wait for a year to get them back.

In Christ College, cellphones were banned five years ago. “At the time of admission and also in the prospectus, we mention that cellphones are banned,” said P M Varghese, a lecturer.

Surana College Principal Prof K E Radhakrishna said the ban is a “good move”.

 “Children use cellphones more than elders. It has become an addiction among students,” he said.