Afghanistan universities implement smartphone ban

Taliban authorities have implemented a ban on smartphones at university campuses across Afghanistan. The directive, issued in June by supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada without official explanation, initially targeted public sector employees before being extended to students.

In cities such as Herat, posters warn that anyone found with a smartphone will face prosecution. While university officials in Kandahar justify the measure as a way to ensure students remain focused on their studies and practical work, students report significant disruptions.

Many students rely on mobile devices for essential academic tasks, such as photographing lecture slides, accessing digital textbooks, and using artificial intelligence for research. Additionally, the ban impacts those who use smartphones for financial stability, including freelance translators who communicate with clients via messaging apps like WhatsApp. The move follows a pattern of restricted digital access in the country, including previous limitations on high-speed internet.