UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's endeavor to advocate for a prohibition on mobile phones within schools was met with widespread ridicule and criticism, as his social media video attracted mockery and barbs from various quarters.
In a 50-second segment shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sunak portrayed himself as constantly interrupted by the incessant phone ringing, aiming to illustrate the disruptive nature of mobile phones in educational settings.
"Almost one-third of secondary school pupils reported disruptions in their lessons due to phones,” Sunak remarked in the footage. “We understand the detrimental impact they have on classroom focus and their role in fostering bullying incidents. Numerous schools have already enforced bans, resulting in safer and more conducive learning environments for students. Today, we're unveiling fresh guidance to assist other educational institutions in adopting similar measures. We're committed to ensuring that our children receive the quality education they deserve."
However, the video failed to elicit the desired response, with social media users deriding it as 'cringeworthy' and critiquing Sunak's acting prowess as reminiscent of "GCSE drama."
The opposition Labour Party capitalized on the opportunity by releasing a spoof video where Sunak checks his phone, revealing faux notifications concerning the UK's economic downturn, NHS waiting lists, and immigration challenges.
The UK government asserted that the new guidelines for schools aim to "minimize disruption and enhance discipline." Education Secretary Gillian Keegan emphasized the urgent need for "consistency" and the importance of reshaping the prevailing "social norms" regarding phones in educational institutions.
The guidance offers schools flexibility in implementing the ban, allowing options such as leaving phones at home, surrendering them upon arrival, or storing them in inaccessible lockers, provided they remain unused and unheard.
This initiative comes amidst mounting concerns regarding smartphone distractions, as data from Ofcom indicates that 97 percent of children possess smartphones by the age of 12. Additionally, worries persist regarding the potential for bullying and exposure to harmful content facilitated by mobile devices.
