The Eastern Province education department has banned teachers from using their mobiles during classes.

The department has issued a list of penalties for teachers breaking the ban. It has also prohibited teachers, visitors and administrators from taking pictures of students without prior permission.

The ban comes in the wake of a decision by the Council of Ministers to counter information technology crimes.

There have been photographs circulating on social networking sites showing teachers using their chat applications on their mobiles during classes. School administrations have also complained about teachers using their mobiles while they should be teaching. The department said that teachers must respect their students and ensure they create a suitable learning environment.

“School principals should abide by the decision which includes the school’s visitors, administrators, educators and parents. Only the education department can authorize the taking of photographs,” it said.