The Plateau State House of Assembly has ordered an end to the compulsory yearly purchase of textbooks by parents, a practice it described as exploitative and unfair.
The decision followed a motion by Hon. Joseph Bukar, representing Shendam Constituency, and seconded by Hon. Mathew Kwarpo Sylvanus of Mangu South. Presenting the motion, Bukar said, “Compelling parents to buy new textbooks every academic session is exploitative and unfair.”
The Assembly noted that textbooks could be re-circulated among pupils, including siblings, as part of measures to reduce the financial burden on families. Lawmakers emphasized that parents were not seeking luxury but fairness and relief, and adopting a sustainable textbook policy would make education more affordable.
After deliberations, the House resolved that parents should be allowed to re-use textbooks and purchase them from sources outside schools. It also approved a four-year textbook cycle, ensuring approved textbooks remain in use for at least four academic sessions, similar to practices in Edo and Imo states. The Assembly further encouraged Parent-Teacher Associations and schools to establish book banks and swap schemes to cut costs while promoting responsible re-use.
In addition, the House condemned the growing trend of yearly graduation ceremonies in nursery and primary schools, describing them as “wasteful and unnecessary.” Lawmakers argued these events place avoidable financial burdens on parents without adding academic value.
To ensure compliance, the Committee on Education was directed to summon heads of private schools and Ministry of Education officials to communicate the resolutions, warning that schools found violating the directive would face heavy sanctions.
The Assembly also deliberated on a motion by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, member for Pankshin North, calling for regulation of unauthorised house agents in the state. Members condemned “exploitative tendencies,” including illegal and exorbitant charges, and resolved to prohibit such activities by introducing a licensing system and repealing the outdated Rent Edict.
In his closing remarks, Speaker Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel commended members for their contributions and assured that the Assembly remains committed to legislations and resolutions that bring relief and development to the people of Plateau.
