Mobile phones will be completely banned in Geneva's secondary schools from the start of the new school year. +Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox The measure aims to preserve the quality of learning, the mental health of students and encourage social interaction. Mobile phones are already banned in elementary schools and partially in middle schools, the Department of Public Education (DIP) said, adding that the rules and sanctions vary from school to school, during lunch breaks or before lessons. + Why some people choose not to have a smartphone The DIP has therefore decided to go one step further and impose a total ban, and is strengthening and harmonising sanctions to ensure equal treatment. Sanctions range from confiscation of the phone to exclusion from school for half a day. Personal digital appliances will no longer be allowed for classroom activities, with the exception of specific educational exercises. The goal is not to stigmatise, but to protect ...