The Abia State Government, acting through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, has issued a new directive to educational publishers. The government has instructed them to physically separate workbooks from the main textbooks supplied to schools across the state.
This measure is designed to ensure workbooks can be reused by different pupils in subsequent years, enhancing their utility and longevity.
Furthermore, the state government has strongly criticised the practice of schools recommending up to four different textbooks for a single subject. This common occurrence was identified as a significant financial burden on parents, which the new administration seeks to eliminate.
The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi, made these announcements during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Ministry.
He reiterated Governor Alex Otti’s declaration of free and compulsory education in all primary and basic secondary schools, underscoring the government’s commitment to accessible education.
Commissioner Ubochi also emphasised the compulsory nature of key examinations, including the PSLAT for Primary 6 pupils, the BECE for JSS 3 students, and a mandatory exam for SS2 students before they can be registered for WAEC.
He also addressed the serious issue of child hawking and loitering during school hours, warning that Education Marshals have been directed to identify and capture the details of parents or guardians of children found in violation.
He advised all guardians to ensure their children are enrolled in school. Ubochi concluded by assuring stakeholders that considerations would be made to address gaps in the upcoming teachers’ recruitment drive. The meeting was attended by representatives from major examination bodies and educational unions.
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cc: Daily Post NG
