Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has commended the Abia State Government for introducing new education policies aimed at reducing financial burdens on parents and promoting accountability in the school system.
Recall that the reforms, announced after this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by Gov Alex Otti, include the restriction of graduation ceremonies to only terminal classes—Primary 6 and SS3—in both public and private schools.
The government also prohibited the switching of schools between SS2 and SS3 to curb examination malpractice, while directing that no student will be admitted into SS3 without passing a mandatory state-organized promotion exam.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Aguocha described the policies as “bold, timely, and parent-friendly,” noting that they address some of the silent struggles of families in Abia.
“For too long, parents have been subjected to unnecessary financial pressures from avoidable ceremonies and costly practices in our schools. By restricting graduation events to terminal classes, the government has shown sensitivity to the economic realities of our people,” Aguocha said.
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He further praised the decision to separate textbooks from workbooks, which will allow younger siblings to reuse learning materials and reduce the burden of annual purchases.
“This single measure may appear small, but in reality, it is a huge relief to households. It will save parents thousands of naira each year, while ensuring that every child still has the needed workbooks to practice with,” he added.
On the prohibition of school switching between SS2 and SS3, the lawmaker noted that the move would promote fairness and integrity in the education system, particularly in the conduct of terminal examinations like WAEC and NECO.
“Exam malpractice is one of the biggest threats to the credibility of our education system. By stopping arbitrary transfers in SS2 and introducing compulsory promotion exams, Abia is sending a clear message that merit and accountability must come first,” Aguocha stated.
“I urge parents to comply with this directive and safeguard their children’s educational journey,” he advised.
Hon. Aguocha however assured that he would continue to support policies and programs that strengthen education in Abia and Nigeria at large, while calling on stakeholders; teachers, parents, school proprietors, and students, to embrace the reforms in good faith.
“Education remains the foundation of every prosperous society. If we must build a strong future for Abia and Nigeria, we must all play our part in supporting reforms that prioritize integrity, affordability, and quality,” he concluded.