Sources have told media outlets that the Taliban have banned the use of smartphones for lecturers, staff, and students at several universities and educational institutions across Afghanistan.
According to available information, the leadership council of Kabul University has decided that, starting Monday, 31 Jawza, the bringing and use of smartphones will be officially prohibited for lecturers, staff, and students at the university.
A source at Kabul University said the decision was presented during a meeting of the Academic Council, but members were not allowed to ask questions. According to the source, attendees were told they had no right to inquiry and that the order must be implemented “unconditionally.”
Reports also indicate that the Taliban have issued similar directives at several other universities in Afghanistan.
In a message sent to students of the Arabic Language and Literature Department at the Faculty of Languages and Literature of Kabul University, it was stated that from Saturday, 30 Jawza, bringing smartphones to the university is “completely prohibited.”
The message warned that in case of violation and if a smartphone is found in a student’s possession, the responsibility will lie solely with the student.
In another notice issued under the name of the Taliban Ministry of Higher Education, it was stated that the leadership council of the ministry has banned the use of smartphones in all affiliated departments from 31 Jawza for lecturers, staff, and students.
The notice described the objectives of the decision as “creating a healthy and organized educational environment,” “enhancing focus and learning quality,” and “maintaining discipline within academic settings.”
Sources in Baghlan province also said that students carrying smartphones were denied entry to Baghlan University.
According to sources in Pul-e Khumri, the ban on smartphone use has also been communicated to private health science institutes.
In Herat, sources reported that smartphone use has been banned in universities, and the Taliban have placed notices at the gates of Herat University stating that no one is permitted to enter with a smartphone.
A lecturer at Herat University said that Taliban guards at the university gate physically search students upon entry.
According to this source, the restriction also applies to students living in dormitories, and Wi-Fi services in student hostels have been disconnected.
Separate reports indicate that the Taliban had previously restricted smartphone use for some government employees as well, warning that in case of violations, devices could be confiscated or destroyed and offenders may be referred to a military court.
Documents obtained by media outlets also suggest that Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has issued a new verbal directive restricting smartphone use for members of the group and government employees. The documents state that violators would be considered “criminals” and could potentially be referred to a military court.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
