Plateau Assembly ends mandatory annual textbook purchases, calls for fair school policies

The Plateau State House of Assembly has officially banned the yearly compulsory purchase of textbooks by parents in schools. This resolve came after a thoughtful proposal introduced by Hon. Joseph Bukar of Shendam Constituency and supported by Hon. Mathew Kwarpo Sylvanus from Mangu South during a recent legislative session.

Hon. Bukar criticized the common requirement for parents to acquire new textbooks every academic year, labeling the practice as unjust and burdensome. The assembly’s decision aims to alleviate these hardships by encouraging schools to promote more affordable and sustainable reading materials policies.

Lawmakers stressed that textbooks should be circulated among students, including siblings, reducing unnecessary expenses for families. They emphasized that the call is not for luxury but rather fairness and relief, advocating for protocols that will make schooling more accessible and budget-friendly.

After careful examination, the House agreed on a new four-year schedule for textbook use, ensuring that approved books remain in service for multiple academic sessions. This method mirrors strategies successfully implemented in other Nigerian states such as Edo and Imo.

Moreover, the assembly urged Parent-Teacher Associations and educational institutions to create book lending libraries and exchange programs. /

In addition to textbook reforms, the House voiced concern about the rising trend of hosting annual graduation ceremonies at nursery and primary schools. Describing these events as excessive and unnecessary, the assembly argued that they impose avoidable costs on families without enhancing educational outcomes. They recommended halting such practices to reduce financial pressure on parents.

To uphold these resolutions, the Committee on Education was tasked with engaging school leaders and Ministry of Education officials. The assembly warned that institutions defying these new directives may face stringent penalties.