The Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia has approved general rules for the use of electronic communication devices in schools during the educational process, the procedure for communication between students and parents or legal representatives, and the rights and responsibilities of schools and students. In addition, the document establishes minimum requirements for designated storage areas for mobile phones, smartphones, and smartwatches.
According to the decree, schools must carry out the necessary organizational and technical measures by September 1, 2026, including the purchase and installation of a sufficient number of special lockers or storage compartments for mobile phones, smartphones, and smartwatches.
The document stipulates that the non-educational use of electronic communication devices is prohibited during the educational process, except in cases provided for by the school’s internal rules.
Non-educational use is defined as storing, carrying, or using a device in an active state during classes without the prior permission of an authorized person.
The use of electronic devices is permitted in the following cases:
- with the prior permission of an authorized person for educational purposes;
- for health monitoring or other medical purposes, provided that relevant documents have been submitted to the school in advance by parents or legal representatives;
- in emergency and urgent situations;
- for students with special educational needs or disabilities, by joint decision of the parent, class teacher, and an inclusive education specialist (if available);
- taking into account the individual needs of the student, if necessary for their learning and daily functioning, as confirmed by the assessment of a relevant specialist;
- in other cases provided for by the school’s internal regulations.
Communication between students and parents will be conducted through official communication channels designated by the school.
Schools are required to establish and inform parents of official communication channels, including:
- the contact number of the school administration;
- the email address and phone number of the class teacher or the school;
- school information systems;
- official social media pages and other means of communication.
In addition, schools are required to ensure the temporary storage of students’ electronic devices. Those responsible for receiving and returning the devices will be appointed by order of the school principal.
In the event of loss or damage to electronic devices, the resulting damage will be compensated in accordance with the procedure established by Georgian legislation.
Schools are also required to familiarize parents with the new rules at the beginning of each school year and ensure public access to them and related regulatory acts.
