The Paraguayan Senate's Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation and the Future took an important step toward restricting the use of cell phones and electronic devices in the country's educational institutions. In a meeting held last week, senators decided to unify proposals from the Executive Branch and the Chamber of Deputies into a single text, aiming to close loopholes in current legislation and make the ban more effective.
Chaired by Senator Patrick Kemper, the committee proposes that the restriction apply throughout the entire school day, covering public, private, and subsidized schools. Exceptions are made only for emergencies, previously authorized pedagogical activities, and accessibility cases for students with disabilities. The Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC) will be the body responsible for regulating and enforcing compliance with the new rules.
Kemper explained that the intention is to consolidate the different bills under consideration, incorporating improvements that allow for more efficient application within classrooms. “We want to reinforce protection mechanisms for children and adolescents against the indiscriminate use of electronic devices in the school environment,” the senator stated. According to him, the measure seeks to improve learning conditions, reduce distractions, and strengthen the educational environment.
The committee meeting was held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and remote participation by several legislators. The bill now proceeds to the Senate floor for analysis, where it may receive amendments before being voted on.