Bengaluru: City private schools ban smartwatches amid safety concerns

In a recent move, private schools in the city are instituting a ban on smartwatches, citing concerns over student distraction and safety. The decision comes amid growing support from parents and educational authorities who argue that these devices undermine classroom focus and pose potential security risks.

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The ban, endorsed by KAMS (Associated Managements of Schools in Karnataka), is part of a broader initiative to curb what is seen as a technological distraction in educational environments. KAMS warns that smartwatches, with their array of features including social media and cameras, could divert students' attention away from their studies and disrupt the learning process.

KAMS, a prominent association of private schools, has been vocal in its support for the ban. The general secretary of KAMS stated that smartwatches offer numerous distractions that are incompatible with a focused learning environment. Given the presence of cameras and social media capabilities in these devices, their use in schools is not advisable.

The ban is expected to be implemented across all participating private schools, reinforcing a commitment to maintaining an optimal educational setting. The move reflects a growing consensus that the benefits of smartwatches are outweighed by their potential to interfere with students' academic performance and overall safety.