Anambra Government Bans Writing of Assignments in Textbooks Calls It Wasteful

The Anambra State Government has banned writing assignments directly inside textbooks, describing it as wasteful and unsustainable.

Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the directive on Friday during a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka. She explained that the move is to make textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings.

Prof. Chuma-Udeh said 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 stated, “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 encourage stakeholders to report cases of defaulters to the Ministry of Education.”

The Commissioner also announced a clampdown on graduation parties in nursery and primary schools, describing them as unnecessary and exploitative.

“It has come to the notice of the state government that graduation parties have turned out to be an avenue for financial exploitation by some school owners and the government can no longer keep quiet over the issue,” Prof. Chuma-Udeh said.

She added that teaching and running a school is a divine call that should not be mortgaged for financial gains, stressing that such practices run contrary to the mission and vision of the government in making education accessible and equitable for school children in Anambra State.