MELBOURNE, Dec 8: Teachers have expressed serious concerns over the proposed social media ban for under-16s, warning that it could undermine young people’s political education. Many educators believe that access to social media provides an important platform for students to engage with current events, discuss civic issues, and develop the critical thinking skills necessary for active citizenship. Restricting access, they argue, risks limiting these opportunities and leaving young people less informed about the world around them.
In addition to raising concerns about the ban, teachers have called for better support and resources to help students navigate political and social topics effectively. They stressed the need for comprehensive guidance, professional training, and classroom tools that can help young people engage with political and societal issues, even if social media access is restricted. Without such support, educators fear that the gap in students’ civic understanding could widen.
Education experts have highlighted that while protecting children online is important, it should not come at the cost of limiting their ability to participate in discussions about democracy, governance, and society. They urged policymakers to work closely with schools to develop balanced strategies that ensure both safety and opportunities for informed engagement, allowing young people to grow into knowledgeable and active citizens.
