Avoid use of phones, smart devices during exams, Oyo govt warns students

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Government has reiterated its ban on the use of mobile phones, smartwatches, and Meta eyeglasses by students within school premises, particularly during examinations, warning that strict sanctions await defaulters.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known during a meeting with top education stakeholders, including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education (PS/IGEs), and departmental heads, held at the ministry’s conference room in Ibadan.

Olayiwola emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity in the state’s education system, noting that examination malpractice remains a major challenge that must be tackled head-on.

He stated that an earlier circular from the ministry already bars students from bringing mobile phones to school, especially during examination periods, and urged school heads to ensure full enforcement of the directive.

According to him, devices such as smartwatches and Meta glasses, which can be used to aid cheating, pose a serious threat to fair assessment and must not be allowed into examination halls.

The commissioner further charged school administrators to remain vigilant and uncompromising in upholding the rules, warning that any school found to be negligent would be held accountable.

He also called on parents and guardians to play active roles in monitoring their children and ensuring they comply with the state’s directives.

“We must collectively safeguard the credibility of our education system by eliminating all forms of malpractice and promoting discipline in our schools,” Olayiwola said.