Anambra State Government Clarifies Allegations of High Textbook Costs in Private School/Vop

The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a unified educational system in the state, emphasizing its adherence to the curriculum specified by the Federal Ministry of Education and tailored to the state’s educational needs.

Speaking in her office in Awka, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, highlighted that while private and mission-run schools are subject to quality assurance oversight by the state ministry, they operate as independent enterprises. This means the government does not regulate their fees, uniforms, or related expenses.

Professor Chuma-Udeh pointed out that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has made public education accessible to all children in the state by offering free education in public schools. She stated that parents choosing private schools must adhere to the costs set by those institutions, although the government can intervene if textbook prices become excessively high.

The Commissioner revealed that 29 schools across the state are currently undergoing upgrades to become “smart schools.” She added that the government’s long-term goal is to transform most schools in Anambra into smart schools and ensure every community has access to quality education.

Addressing the surge in student enrollment due to the free education policy, Professor Chuma-Udeh assured that the Governor is prepared to meet the growing demand by constructing additional classrooms under the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative.

She called on principals, headteachers, teachers, and all stakeholders in the education sector to support the Governor’s vision for advancing the state’s education system.

The Commissioner expressed confidence that with collective efforts, Anambra State will reach new heights in educational excellence.