(ECNS) - A new regulation banning the use of electronic devices in primary, middle and high schools will take effect in East China's Shandong Province starting on Nov. 1 amid efforts to promote health among students.
According to regional rules, schools are required to strengthen the management of electronic products. Students will be prohibited from bringing mobile phones and tablets into classrooms. Schools should spread knowledge and methods of eye-care among students and conduct at least two eyesight tests for students every semester.
The new regulation, passed by the province's legislature on Sept. 21, is the first in China to promote the health of students, said Zhao Lihui, an official at the Shandong Provincial Department of Education.
Zhao said excessive homework affects students' health, so the new regulation stipulates that students should spend no more than six hours per day in primary school and eight hours per day in secondary school.
The provincial regulation also says that students should have no less than one hour of physical activity a day at school, and that at least one sports meeting should be held every year in schools.
The legislative efforts to increase outdoor sports time and limit use of electronic products can help reduce the incidence of myopia in young people, said an expert.
