The Anambra State Government has announced a ban on the practice of writing assignments directly in textbooks, describing the act as wasteful and unsustainable.
The decision, according to the state Ministry of Education, is aimed at making textbooks reusable for younger siblings and reducing the financial burden on families.
This was announced in a directive on Friday during a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, said the policy aligns with the government’s strategy to promote quality and sustainable education.
“The decision is aimed at making textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils who would need them when they advance to the next class. There is also the need for textbooks to be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners,” she said.
The commissioner warned that the state government would not tolerate non-compliance, urging parents, teachers, and school administrators to ensure strict adherence, while encouraging stakeholders to report defaulters to the ministry.
Similarly, the state government has also vowed to clamp down on what it described as “incessant and unnecessary” graduation parties in schools, particularly at nursery and primary levels.
Chuma-Udeh explained that the move followed growing complaints from parents over the financial strain imposed by such events, which she said had become avenues for exploitation.
“It has come to the notice of the state government that graduation parties have turned into a platform for financial exploitation by some school owners. The government can no longer remain silent. Teaching and running a school is a divine call and should not be mortgaged for financial gains,” she stressed.
She maintained that education in the state must remain accessible and equitable, and warned schools to strictly comply with the new directives.
