The Anambra State Government has prohibited pupils from writing their assignments directly in textbooks, describing the practice as “wasteful and unsustainable.”
The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the directive during a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers held at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka.
According to her, the new measure is intended to make textbooks reusable for other children within families.
“This decision is aimed at easing the financial pressure on parents. Textbooks should be reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils who will also need them when they move to the next class,” Chuma-Udeh explained.
She emphasized that books must be designed to reflect inclusivity, equality, and the learning needs of all children, stressing that schools, teachers, and parents must comply fully.
“The government will not tolerate non-compliance. We urge parents, teachers, and school administrators to strictly adhere to this directive. Anyone found flouting the rule will be sanctioned,” she warned.
The commissioner also disclosed that the government is set to clamp down on extravagant graduation parties, particularly in nursery and primary schools. She noted that several parents had complained of being financially overburdened by the growing trend.
“It has come to our notice that graduation parties have become a channel for financial exploitation by some school owners. Teaching and running a school is a divine call and should not be mortgaged for monetary gains,” Chuma-Udeh said.
She stressed that the state’s vision for education is to make it accessible, equitable, and sustainable, adding that activities contrary to this mission would not be condoned.