THE Plateau State House of Assembly has outlawed the compulsory annual purchase of textbooks by pupils and students across schools in the state, describing the practice as exploitative and unfair to parents.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Joseph Bukar (Shendam Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Mathew Kwarpo Sylvanus (Mangu South) during plenary in Jos.
Presenting the motion, Bukar lamented the financial pressure on families who are compelled to buy new textbooks every academic year, even when older editions could still serve. He described the practice as “an exploitative tradition that deepens hardship on Plateau families.”
After robust debate, lawmakers resolved that parents must be allowed the freedom to reuse textbooks for siblings or purchase them from alternative sources outside schools.
They also endorsed the adoption of a four-year textbook cycle, ensuring that approved texts remain valid for at least four academic sessions, similar to models already in use in states such as Edo and Imo.
“Parents in Plateau are not asking for luxury, but for fairness and relief,” the lawmakers stressed, urging schools to embrace sustainable textbook policies that reduce costs without compromising quality.
To reinforce the resolution, the Assembly advised schools and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to establish book banks and swap schemes, enabling families to circulate used textbooks among pupils. Such initiatives, lawmakers said, would help cut costs and promote a culture of reuse.
In the same session, the Assembly also condemned the growing trend of elaborate graduation ceremonies in nursery and primary schools, describing them as wasteful and financially burdensome.
According to members, these ceremonies “add no real academic value” but instead impose unnecessary expenses on parents already grappling with economic hardship.
The House directed its Committee on Education to summon officials of the Ministry of Education and heads of private schools to formally communicate its resolutions. It warned that any school found violating the directive will face heavy sanctions.
Beyond education, the Assembly also deliberated on a motion raised by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan (Pankshin North), seeking urgent regulation of unlicensed house agents in the state.
Lawmakers decried the “exploitative tendencies” of these agents, including illegal and exorbitant charges, and resolved to introduce a licensing system while repealing the outdated Rent Edict to protect tenants.
In his closing remarks, Speaker Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel commended members for their robust contributions, assuring residents that the Assembly remains committed to legislations and resolutions aimed at reducing hardship and promoting sustainable development in Plateau State.
“This House will continue to stand with the people by enacting policies that ease their burdens and secure their future,” the Speaker said.