The Cross River State Government has unveiled a comprehensive package of education policy reforms designed to standardize practices in public and private schools, safeguard pupils’ welfare, and improve data management across the state.
The reforms, approved by His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, were announced earlier today by the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, during a press briefing in Calabar. The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Governor for endorsing the reforms, describing them as “a significant step toward achieving holistic, quality education for all Cross River children.”
Key Highlights of the Reforms:
1. Uniform Academic Calendar
All public and private schools must now follow a single approved calendar for opening and closing. Schools that fail to comply risk sanctions, including derecognition and withholding of approval-to-operate (ATO).
2. Graduation Ceremonies
Graduation events are now reserved strictly for certificate classes—Primary 6, JSS3, and SS3. Ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and non-exit classes have been abolished to reduce unnecessary costs for parents.
3. Use of Approved Textbooks
Only Ministry-approved textbooks will be permitted in schools. Publishers are prohibited from embedding workbooks that make textbooks non-transferable, ensuring uniformity, cost savings, and reuse among pupils.
4. School Lessons After 2:00 PM Prohibited
Schools are directed to end classes at 1:00 pm for primary and 2:00 pm for secondary levels. Compulsory after-school lessons are banned to prevent mental fatigue, physical stress, and additional financial burdens on parents. Extra lessons may only occur with parental consent, and the Ministry will not be responsible for any issues arising outside the approved schedule.
5. Establishment of Anti-Drug Clubs
To combat rising drug use among students, every public and private school must establish anti-drug clubs. These clubs will monitor and report incidents, raise awareness, and work with authorities to enforce discipline.
6. Bullying Prevention Measures
Anti-Bullying Committees are now mandatory in all schools. Any student caught bullying will face instant expulsion to deter misconduct. The initiative aims to create a safer and more respectful learning environment.
7. Pupils/Students Index Number System
Beginning with the 2025/2026 academic session, all pupils—from Kindergarten to SS3—will be assigned a unique index number. The new system will improve data accuracy, prevent fraudulent transfers, and streamline admissions. Distribution of index numbers will begin in early 2026 once admission documentation is complete.
Implementation and Compliance:
The Commissioner emphasized that implementation takes effect immediately.
• School managers and proprietors must comply without delay.
• Strict adherence is expected, and violators will face sanctions.
• Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor these reforms and provide feedback to ensure the policies achieve their intended goals.
Commissioner Odey concluded, “These reforms are about safeguarding our children’s future, improving standards, and making Cross River State’s education system a model for others to follow. With the Governor’s support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we are confident of achieving lasting change.”
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