Anambra Govt Bans Writing in Textbooks, Terms it Wasteful

The Anambra State Government has banned the practice of writing assignments directly inside textbooks, describing it as wasteful and unsustainable. This policy aims to make textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils advancing through school, thereby easing financial pressure on families and promoting sustainable education.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the ban during a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka, emphasizing that textbooks should reflect inclusivity, diversity, and equality.

The government also warned that non-compliance would not be tolerated, urging parents, teachers, and administrators to enforce the directive and report defaulters to the Ministry of Education.

Chuma-Udeh noted the initiative is part of government efforts to reduce financial pressure on families and promote sustainable education, while also stressing that textbooks should reflect inclusivity, diversity, and equality.

She said, “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.

The government would not tolerate non-compliance with the directive; parents, teachers, and school administrators are urged to ensure strict adherence.

We also encouraged stakeholders to report cases of defaulters to the Ministry of Education.” The government also announced a clampdown on graduation parties in nursery and primary schools, describing them as unnecessary and exploitative.

She stated, “It has come to the notice of the state government that graduation parties have turned out to be avenue for financial exploitation by some school owners and the government can no longer keep quiet over the issue. Teaching and running a school is a divine call and should not be mortgaged for financial gains.

Indulging in such runs contrarily to the mission and vision of the government as regards making education accessible and equitable for Anambra State school children.”