Cross River Government Introduces Landmark Education Reforms to Standardise Schools, Safeguard Pupils’ Welfare

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Cross River State Government has announced a sweeping set of education reforms aimed at transforming learning standards, protecting pupils’ welfare, and improving data management across both public and private schools in the state.

Governor Bassey Otu approved the reforms, which were unveiled by the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, during a press briefing in Calabar on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

According to Akahi News findings, Professor Odey described the reforms as “a decisive step towards achieving holistic, quality education for all children in Cross River,” while commending the Governor for his vision and commitment to the sector.

Key Areas of the Education Reforms

The policy package introduces several measures designed to promote uniformity, reduce parental burdens, and create a safer learning environment for pupils. The main highlights include:

1. Uniform Academic Calendar

All schools, public and private, must now operate under a single approved academic calendar for opening and closing dates. Schools that fail to comply risk losing their operational approval and recognition by the Ministry of Education.

2. Graduation Ceremonies Limited to Certificate Classes

To cut unnecessary costs for parents, graduation events are now restricted to Primary 6, JSS3, and SS3 pupils. Ceremonies for nursery and non-exit classes have been abolished entirely.

3. Ministry-Approved Textbooks Only

The government has ordered that only textbooks approved by the Ministry of Education will be permitted in schools. Publishers embedding workbooks that make textbooks non-transferable have been banned to ensure uniformity, cost savings, and reusability.

4. School Lessons After 2:00 PM Prohibited

All classes in primary schools must close by 1:00 PM, while secondary schools end at 2:00 PM. Compulsory after-school lessons have been banned to prevent mental fatigue, physical stress, and unnecessary financial pressures on parents. Extra lessons may only take place with the consent of parents, and the Ministry will not be liable for any issues arising outside approved hours.

5. Anti-Drug Clubs and Anti-Bullying Committees

Every school is now mandated to establish anti-drug clubs to curb rising cases of drug abuse among students. Additionally, Anti-Bullying Committees will be set up in all schools, with any student caught bullying facing instant expulsion.

6. Pupils’ Index Number System for Accurate Data Management

Starting from the 2025/2026 academic session, every pupil from Kindergarten to SS3 will be assigned a unique index number. This system will enhance data accuracy, prevent fraudulent transfers, and improve administrative planning across the education sector.

Government Calls for Strict Compliance

Professor Odey emphasised that the reforms take effect immediately, warning that school proprietors and administrators must comply fully or face sanctions.

“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,” he said. “With the Governor’s leadership and stakeholders’ cooperation, we can achieve lasting change.”

Parents and guardians have also been urged to monitor implementation closely and provide feedback to ensure the reforms achieve their intended impact.

Implications for the Future of Education in Cross River

Observers believe the reforms will not only improve learning standards but also reduce financial pressures on parents, promote student safety, and provide the government with reliable data for long-term planning.

According to Akahi News analysis, if implemented effectively, the new policies could place Cross River State at the forefront of education reforms in Nigeria, offering a model for other states to emulate.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org