Algiers – A national survey conducted by the Ministry of Health has revealed alarming findings regarding the impact of digital screens on students. The survey, focusing on the detrimental effects of screen usage in schools, highlights the excessive use of digital devices by students and its negative consequences on their academic performance and overall health.
During a scientific meeting held at the Ministry of Health to present the survey results, Dr. Hamza Rouabhi, coordinator of the survey and head of the prevention department at the Directorate of Health and Population in Setif, emphasized the widespread and irresponsible use of digital screens among students. The study, which involved over one million middle school students across the country, revealed that a significant portion of students are exposed to potential harm through these devices.
“Our findings indicate that 40 percent of students received their first smartphone between the ages of 11 and 13,” Dr. Rouabhi stated. “Furthermore, over 32 percent of students spend more than three hours daily using digital screens, including televisions, smartphones, and tablets. This excessive screen time is a major cause for concern.”
The survey also revealed that a staggering 40 percent of students have been exposed to inappropriate content through these digital screens. The Ministry of Health is now actively working on strategies to promote responsible digital screen usage among students, aiming to improve their concentration and combat the rising rates of obesity linked to prolonged screen time.
Dr. Fatima Bousmaha, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of parental involvement. “Parents have a crucial responsibility to monitor the content their children are accessing through these screens and to limit their screen time to protect their health and well-being,” she stated. Dr. Jamal Fourar, Director-General of Prevention and Health Promotion at the Ministry, echoed this sentiment, urging parents to take an active role in guiding their children’s digital habits. The Ministry plans to launch awareness campaigns to educate both students and parents about the risks associated with excessive screen usage and promote healthy digital habits.
