Ministry of Higher Education Bans Smartphone Use for Junior Employees

The leadership of Afghanistan’s Ministry of Higher Education has decided that all employees in Grade Four and below, working in central directorates, universities, and higher education institutions, must refrain from using smartphones during official working hours and are not allowed to bring them to the workplace.

Ziaullah Hashimi, spokesperson for the ministry, told that the decision aims to prevent administrative staff from unnecessary distractions and reduce delays in official duties.

“The leadership of the Ministry of Higher Education has decided that employees in Grade Four and below at central directorates, universities, and higher education institutions must refrain from using smartphones during official hours and must not bring them to the office,” said Hashimi.

Some university professors, however, have expressed differing opinions regarding the ministry’s decision.

Mohammad Aslam Danishmal, a university lecturer, said: “Using smartphones in universities or in general, if done properly, can be beneficial. A student who doesn’t know how to use a smartphone effectively cannot secure their own future. People, especially students, need to learn the proper and responsible use of technology.”

Sayed Zia Hosseini, another lecturer, said: “Using smartphones in offices can help employees quickly access information. However, on the other hand, excessive and unnecessary use can waste valuable time, reduce focus, and cause delays in administrative services.”

The Ministry of Higher Education emphasized that work in its departments is carried out through office telephones, basic mobile phones, and computers, and therefore there is no need for smartphones in the workplace.