Sri Lanka to ban smartphone use by children under 12 – Minister

October 26, 2025 at 4:43 PM

Sri Lanka is planning to introduce a ban on the use of smartphones by school children under the age of 12, Child Affairs Minister Saroja Paulraj announced.

Speaking at a function attended by school children, the Minister said the government will take a decision to ensure that no child below 12 years of age is allowed to own or use a mobile phone.

She said the move aims to protect children from excessive screen time and exposure to harmful online content, while encouraging healthier childhood development and social interaction. (Newswire)