In a sweeping shake-up of the education sector, the Plateau State Government has banned multiple uniforms, writing inside textbooks, and flamboyant graduation ceremonies across schools in the state.
The resolutions, announced after a stakeholders’ engagement on education organised by the Ministry of Education in Jos on Thursday, 28th August 2025, are aimed at “sanitising” the school system and restoring discipline.
Under the new rules, schools are permitted only one official uniform, with just a cardigan and games wear as extras. Extravagant graduation parties, after-party celebrations, “signing out” rituals and the use of gowns have also been outlawed. Only pupils in Primary 6, JSS3 and SSS3 are allowed modest graduation ceremonies, and strictly in school uniforms.
The government also outlawed the controversial practice of students writing in textbooks or using workbooks, insisting that all assignments and classwork must be done in notebooks. To curb piracy, schools are directed to source textbooks only from publishers.
Other resolutions include: Extra lessons must not be compulsory and are restricted to secondary schools, focusing on English, Mathematics and other core subjects where necessary.
All schools must strictly observe official resumption and closure dates.
Every school must have a functional Parents-Teachers Association (PTA).
WAEC, NECO and NABTEB must ensure their examination timetables no longer clash, while redoubling efforts against “miracle centres” and malpractice.
Education Commissioner said the reforms were necessary to halt the “unhealthy excesses” creeping into schools. “This is a timely intervention to safeguard standards and discipline in Plateau’s education system. Schools, teachers and parents must take note and comply fully,” he stressed.
