Ibadan, July 10, 2025
The Oyo State Government has reiterated a strict ban on mobile phones, smartwatches, and Meta-enabled glasses within school premises, especially during examinations, in a bid to stem the tide of digital exam malpractice.
During a meeting on Wednesday with education officials, including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education, and heads of departments, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, highlighted a circular that clearly prohibits these devices in schools. He emphasized that violations would be met with “strict consequences,” urging school authorities, parents, and guardians to ensure full compliance.
Olayiwola stated that the ban includes all devices capable of facilitating cheating, including mobile phones, smartwatches, and Meta glasses, warning that anyone found using them during exams would face disciplinary actions. He also emphasized the need for collective vigilance to maintain academic integrity and discipline across schools.
The measures come amid growing concerns over the misuse of online platforms and digital gadgets to leak exam questions and assist cheating, a challenge echoed by similar policies in other states and backed by legislative efforts within Oyo’s House of Assembly.
