The Anambra State Government has announced a ban on the practice of writing homework and assignments inside textbooks, describing it as wasteful, financially burdensome, and contrary to the principles of sustainable education.
The Commissioner for Education, Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced on Friday while addressing participants at a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers, organised by the state Ministry of Education at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka.
The state government said the ban aims to make textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils advancing through school, while reducing unnecessary educational expenses for families across the state.
“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,” Chuma-Udeh disclosed.
According to her, “There is also the need for textbooks to be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners.”
Chuma-Udeh added that 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.” She added.
The state government also announced a clampdown on what it described as “incessant and unnecessary” graduation parties in nursery and primary schools.
The commissioner said the move follows complaints from parents about the financial pressures such events place on households and warned that the state would not turn a blind eye to defaulters.
Chuma-Udeh 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 age school students.”
