Parents and guardians in Anambra State are in jubilant mood following the ban on the practice of writing assignments inside textbooks.
The State government had, while announcing the ban, described the practice as wasteful and unsustainable.
Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the directive on Thursday while addressing participants at the third day of a capacity building workshop organized by the Ministry of Education for private school proprietors and teachers at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka.
Prof. Chuma-Udeh explained that the decision was aimed at making textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils who would need them when they advance to the next class. She also stressed the need for textbooks to be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners.
She warned that the government would not tolerate non-compliance with the directive and urged parents, teachers, and school administrators to ensure strict adherence. She also encouraged stakeholders to report cases of defaulters to the Ministry of Education.
According to the Commissioner, the initiative is part of the state government’s strategy to ease financial pressure on families while promoting quality and sustainable education.
Reacting to the ban, a cross section of parents who spoke to our correspondent in Awka, said it was a welcome development.
A woman, Mrs Claren Adibua said it was a moment of relief for her family.
“I have three children and they are all in primary school; every September, we go through the process of paying for book packs for the three of them, and at the end of the session, they become waste.
“With this ban, they can now use the books in succession; we are very happy and thank the government for this action,” she stated.
Another parent, Chuks Igbokwe said the ban was long overdue.
He accused private school owners of using book packs to exploit parents.
“How can you sell textbooks and they become waste after every session?
“So, what the government has done is very much in order, as it will save parents so much pain,” Igbokwe stated.
He added that other states should follow suit and place similar bans.
