In a strategic effort to enhance the quality of instruction and alleviate the financial burden on parents, the Rivers State Government has commenced a massive distribution of free textbooks and essential learning aids to all public primary and secondary schools in Oyigbo Local Government Area. This extensive initiative ensures that every student has access to up-to-date educational resources, thereby standardizing learning materials across schools and fostering a more equitable and effective learning environment. The program in Oyigbo underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to making quality education accessible and affordable for all its citizens.
The distributed materials include core subject textbooks for English Language, Mathematics, Basic Science, Social Studies, and other key subjects, aligned with the national curriculum. In addition to textbooks, schools are also receiving supplementary learning aids such as exercise books, writing materials, mathematical sets, and anatomical charts for science classes. A rigorous inventory and distribution process has been implemented to ensure that the right materials reach the right students and that there is sufficient stock to cover the entire student population in Oyigbo. Teachers are also receiving instructional guides to maximize the use of these new resources.
“This is a huge relief for me as a parent. Buying textbooks for all my children was always a struggle. Now they have new, free books, and I can save that money for other family needs,” exclaimed Mrs. Ngozi Okeke, a parent of three school-aged children, expressing her heartfelt gratitude.
During the official flag-off ceremony in Afam, the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Dr. Alice Johnson, emphasized the profound impact of this initiative. “By providing free textbooks and learning aids, we are leveling the playing field for our children in Oyigbo. Every student, regardless of their family’s economic status, now has the fundamental tools they need to succeed academically. This is an investment in their future and the future of Rivers State,” she stated. She urged students to take good care of the books and encouraged teachers to integrate them effectively into their lesson plans.
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The distribution has been met with immense enthusiasm from students, teachers, and community leaders. For many years, a significant number of students in Oyigbo attended school without adequate textbooks, relying on shared copies or teacher-provided notes, which often hindered their ability to study effectively at home. This program directly addresses that critical deficiency.
“Having my own textbook makes a big difference. I can read ahead, review lessons, and prepare better for exams. It makes me feel more confident in class,” shared Chibuzor Obi, a secondary school student, highlighting the personal impact of having individual learning materials.
Teachers reported an immediate positive change in classroom dynamics, with students showing increased engagement and improved participation, as they now have their own materials to follow along. The standardization of textbooks also ensures that all students are learning from the same updated curriculum, facilitating more consistent instruction across schools. Community leaders applauded the government for addressing a long-standing need, recognizing the tangible benefits for their youth.
“This will undoubtedly improve academic performance across the board. When students have the right tools, they perform better. It’s a very thoughtful initiative,” added Chief Eze Nwachukwu, a respected community elder.
