SINGAPORE, Dec. 1 -- Singapore's Ministry of Education (MOE) announced on November 30 that secondary school students will face stricter restrictions on smartphone and smartwatch use during school hours starting January 2026.

According to CNA, currently students are prohibited from using such devices during lessons.

Under the new guidelines, the ban will extend to all school hours, including recess, co-curricular activities, enrichment, and remedial lessons.

Devices will have to be kept in designated storage areas or school bags during school hours. Exceptions may be granted by schools when necessary, MOE said.

The move is part of the Grow Well SG national health promotion strategy, aimed at cultivating healthier digital habits among c...