Secondary school principals and teachers in Anambra State have been authorised to confiscate mobile phones brought to school by students.

This is to curb distractions and enhance academic performance.

Nkechi Ikediugwu, chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, gave the directive in her address at the Anambra Schools’ Cultural Day celebration on Friday in Awka, the state capital.

Ms Ikediugwu said there was a need to maintain discipline and focus in learning environments.

“The increasing use of mobile phones by students during school hours has become a serious distraction to their studies.

“I am authorising principals and teachers to seize phones from students who come to school with them so that we can ensure that students concentrate on their academic work without the interference of phones.

“Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration is making significant investments in education to promote academic excellence and instil discipline among students,” she said.

On the cultural event, Ms Ikediugwu called for the preservation of the Igbo culture through the education of the younger generation.

“It is important to continuously educate our students on the values and norms of Ndigbo, to preserve the rich heritage of the Igbo people,” she said.

(NAN)