Anambra State Bans Writing In Textbooks, Cracks Down On Costly Graduation Parties

The Anambra State Government has officially banned writing assignments directly inside textbooks, calling the practice wasteful and unsustainable. 

The move aims to make textbooks reusable, particularly for younger siblings of pupils who will need them as they progress to higher classes.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Education on Friday, State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the ban while addressing participants on the third day of a capacity-building workshop for private school proprietors and teachers at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka.

Chuma-Udeh emphasized that textbooks should also be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners.

She explained that the initiative is part of the state government’s strategy to reduce financial pressure on families while promoting quality and sustainable education.

“The decision is aimed at making textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils who would need them in the next class,” she said. “There is also the need for textbooks to be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners. The government will not tolerate non-compliance. Parents, teachers, and school administrators are urged to ensure strict adherence, and stakeholders are encouraged to report defaulters to the Ministry of Education.”

In addition, the state government has vowed to clamp down on unnecessary graduation parties in schools, particularly for nursery and primary classes.

Chuma-Udeh said the measure was necessary following complaints from parents burdened by the high costs of such events. She warned that defaulters would face strict consequences.

“It has come to the notice of the state government that graduation parties have become avenues for financial exploitation by some school owners, and the government can no longer remain silent,” she said. “Teaching and running a school is a divine call and should not be compromised for financial gain. Indulging in such practices goes against the mission and vision of the government in making education accessible and equitable for all Anambra State students.”