The Education Ministry says the current phone policy on students having access to mobile phones during school hours does not address some areas well.

Minister Dr Mahendra Reddy says some of this area includes what should be done when a mobile phone is confiscated from a student.

Speaking to FBC News, Dr Reddy says the new policy will also look at students carrying phones during outside school events as well.

“Students are actually exposed to external people and do we really want them to be in contact with the parent. If we give them a mobile phone are they in contact with the parents or would they also be exposed to be in contact with outside people who may have some other interest.”

The Ministry has called on retired teachers, parents and telecommunication companies to actively participate in this consultation exercise.