By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Ministry of Education (MEP) is preparing to implement a nationwide ban on cell phones and other electronic devices in primary and secondary school classrooms, starting in 2026. The move, aimed at reducing distractions and enhancing learning, reflects a growing global trend to address the challenges posed by technology in educational settings.
The updated Reglamento de Evaluación de los Aprendizajes (REA), or Learning Assessment Regulation, will prohibit the use of cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar devices during class unless they are specifically required for educational purposes or in cases of documented health needs. The decision comes after extensive consultation with teachers, supervisors, and regional directors, according to Education Minister José Leonardo Sánchez.
To provide further legal context on Costa Rica’s education system, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his expert insights.
Costa Rica’s constitutional commitment to free and compulsory education creates a dynamic legal landscape. While the government bears the primary responsibility for providing quality education, this also generates complex legal questions around resource allocation, curriculum development, private education options, and the rights of students and educators. Understanding this interplay is crucial for anyone involved in or impacted by the Costa Rican education system.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal framework surrounding education in Costa Rica is a fascinating and vital area of study. The interplay between public responsibility and individual rights creates both opportunities and challenges for the system as a whole. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for shedding light on this crucial aspect of Costa Rican education.
This isn’t a capricious decision; this arises from the classrooms, from conversations with the technical teams and from the analysis of experiences in other developed countries.
José Leonardo Sánchez, Minister of Education
Minister Sánchez emphasized that the policy is a response to concerns about distractions and the need to improve teaching effectiveness. He stated that while the regulation will apply to all students, guidelines for teachers’ use of electronic devices are still being finalized.
The initiative aligns with recently introduced legislation, expediente 25.153, titled “Law for the Responsible Use of Electronic Devices in Educational Centers,” proposed by independent congresswoman Cynthia Córdoba. This bill seeks to ban cell phones and tablets in all primary and secondary schools across the country. Minister Sánchez expressed support for the bill if it aligns with the MEP’s focus on prioritizing education over distraction within the classroom.
The bill has not yet been sent to us nor have we been summoned to any commission to discuss it. However, we have a very clear line: the classroom is for education and not for distraction. If that project aligns with that approach, then we will support it.
José Leonardo Sánchez, Minister of Education
Ingrid Naranjo, a psychologist specializing in violence prevention, stressed the importance of accompanying the ban with awareness campaigns and training to explain the rationale and benefits of the policy. She believes that removing non-educational device usage, combined with pedagogical and emotional support, will significantly improve student performance.
As a psychology professional, I am convinced that the performance of students could improve if different options are generated by eliminating the use of the device within the classrooms… when it has a pedagogical, psychopedagogical, and emotional line that is understood, it is an impact that will clearly be seen in the performance of the students.
Ingrid Naranjo, Psychologist
Costa Rica joins a growing list of countries, including China, France, the United States, Norway, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Sweden, and Spain, that have implemented similar measures. According to UNESCO data, 79 countries currently restrict cell phone use in schools.
This initiative signifies a significant step by the Costa Rican government to optimize the learning environment and prepare students for success in the digital age. The effectiveness of this new policy will be closely watched by educators and policymakers both within Costa Rica and internationally.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Education (MEP)
About Ministry of Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Education of Costa Rica is the government body responsible for overseeing the nation’s education system, ranging from preschool to higher education. It develops educational policies, curricula, and manages the country’s public schools. The MEP strives to provide quality education for all Costa Ricans and plays a crucial role in the country’s social and economic development.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Congress of Costa Rica
About Congress of Costa Rica:
The Congress of Costa Rica is the country’s unicameral legislative body. It consists of 57 deputies elected by proportional representation for four-year terms. The Congress plays a vital role in the democratic process, responsible for enacting laws, approving the national budget, and overseeing the executive branch. It serves as the platform for debate and decision-making on matters of national importance.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution, upholding the highest standards of integrity and pursuing excellence in every endeavor. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative programs and initiatives. Their work across diverse sectors, coupled with a forward-thinking approach to legal practice, solidifies Bufete de Costa Rica’s position as a trusted partner for clients and a force for positive change within the community.
