JOS: The Plateau State House of Assembly has moved to end what it described as exploitative practices in the education sector, halting the compulsory annual purchase of textbooks and the hosting of elaborate graduation ceremonies in nursery and primary schools across the state.
The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Mr. Joseph Bukar (Shendam Constituency) and seconded by Mr. Mathew Kwarpo (Mangu South) during plenary on Wednesday.
Bukar decried the practice of compelling parents to buy new textbooks each session, insisting it was unjust and financially draining. He argued that Plateau parents were only seeking fairness, not privileges, and called for a sustainable textbook policy to make education more affordable.
After deliberations, lawmakers resolved that parents must be free to re-use textbooks or purchase them from alternative sources. They also recommended a four-year textbook cycle—already in use in some states—to ensure approved texts remain valid for at least four academic sessions.
The House further urged schools and Parent-Teacher Associations to establish book banks and swap schemes to cut costs and encourage responsible reuse.
On graduation ceremonies, members condemned the growing trend in nursery and primary schools, describing it as unnecessary, wasteful, and a needless financial burden on parents. They ruled that such ceremonies be discontinued statewide.
To enforce compliance, the Committee on Education was directed to summon heads of private schools and officials of the Ministry of Education to formally communicate the resolutions, warning that defaulting schools would face sanctions.
In a separate resolution, the Assembly addressed complaints against unauthorized house agents in the state. A motion by Mr. Gabriel Dewan (Pankshin North) accused the agents of exploitation through illegal fees and exorbitant charges. Lawmakers resolved to introduce a licensing system for agents and repeal the outdated Rent Edict to protect residents.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, commended members for their robust contributions and assured that the Assembly would continue to pass laws and resolutions that bring relief and sustainable development to the people of Plateau State.
