Taiwan High School Students Protest Potential Mobile Phone Ban and New Principal's Policies

Students at New Taipei Municipal Banqiao Senior High School Voice Concerns Over Incoming Principal and Possible Restrictions

New Taipei, May 13 – Students at New Taipei Municipal Banqiao Senior High School (BSHS) in Taiwan are expressing their opposition to the school's incoming principal, Liu Shu-fen (劉淑芬), and the potential implementation of stricter policies, including a possible mobile phone ban.

Protest banners were displayed over the weekend on school grounds, coinciding with the school's anniversary day. The New Taipei Education Department reported that banners displayed messages such as "No authoritarian principals for BSHS," "Free spirits never die, work together to rebel," and "If Shu-fen is a dictator, [get her] off the campus."

The demonstration arises from student concerns about Liu's reported strict management style during her tenure as the principal of Zhonghe Senior High School, which is causing worry of potential restrictions on student freedoms at BSHS, including rumored bans on mobile phone use during class and limitations on student autonomy.

Despite the protest, no large gatherings or disruptions were observed. The New Taipei Education Department, which oversees local schools, emphasized its respect for student participation while encouraging peaceful and rational expression of views.

On a Facebook fan page dedicated to student complaints, some posts showed pictures of flyers planning a forum to discuss how to "rebel" against Liu. One post urged students to collectively determine their first step.

When asked for comment, Liu told local media outlet ETtoday: "I'm not a female dictator." She added, "I'm glad to see students care about school affairs, but I feel sorry to see misunderstandings and harm caused by a lack of mutual understanding and a proper channel for dialogue."

Some students and alumni on the fan page urged calm, noting that Liu has not yet assumed her position. However, students may be facing broader restrictions on mobile phone use in the future, as the Ministry of Education is pushing for stricter mobile device controls across Taiwan's schools.

In March, the ministry released a draft bill proposing that schools manage all mobile devices, including phones, laptops, and tablets. The New Taipei Education Department highlighted Liu's relevant experience and the transparent selection process, and stated that it would facilitate communication to address student concerns.