Federal Polytechnic Oko Bans Direct Textbook Sales, Easing Student Burden
Students at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Anambra State, are breathing a collective sigh of relief following a landmark decision by the institution to prohibit the direct sale of textbooks by lecturers to students. This move addresses long-standing allegations of exploitation and unfair academic practices within higher education institutions.
The practice of lecturers selling their own textbooks directly to students has been a persistent concern, with many students alleging that it creates an uneven playing field. Reports suggest that students who purchase these materials often receive preferential grading, while those unable to afford them face significant disadvantages, leading to repeated failures in certain courses.
A New Policy for Academic Integrity
In response to these concerns, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, officially announced a ban on the direct sale of educational materials on March 18. This directive carries a stern warning: any lecturer found to be circumventing the established channels for textbook distribution will face disciplinary action.
The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the executive of the Students Union Government (SUG), led by its president, Giant Comrade Anuluonye Ifechukwu Joseph. Dr. Awuzie emphasized that the only legitimate avenue for the sale of textbooks within the polytechnic is through the official polytechnic bookshop. She made it unequivocally clear that lecturers engaging in direct sales outside this framework will not be tolerated.
While Dr. Awuzie noted that she had not yet received any formal petitions regarding direct textbook sales, she assured the student leadership that any such grievances would be treated with the utmost seriousness.
Restructuring Student Representation
Beyond the textbook sales ban, the Rector also took decisive action to reform the role of student representatives in academic matters. Lecturers have been prohibited from appointing “Course Representatives” for the purpose of textbook sales. Henceforth, any student found to be acting as such will be subject to disciplinary measures.
The polytechnic will continue to have “Class Reps” within departments. However, Dr. Awuzie issued a clear warning that any Class Rep found to be extorting fellow students will also face disciplinary consequences.
Student Commendation for Rector’s Initiatives
The response from the student body has been overwhelmingly positive. Students interviewed expressed deep appreciation for the Rector’s proactive approach to addressing issues affecting their academic well-being.
The SUG President, Comrade Anuluonye Ifechukwu, affectionately known as ‘Ancestor’, lauded Dr. Awuzie’s leadership, describing her as a “mother” figure who is dedicated to resolving student challenges.
“What problem our amiable rector cannot solve for students is what is not brought to her knowledge,” Comrade Anuluonye stated. “Since she assumed office, there has never been any problem brought to her notice that is not tackled with the needed urgency. We also commend her for her courage in banning direct sale of academic materials to students. Only people who do not attend higher institutions will not understand what indigent students go through because many lecturers make it compulsory that students must buy their textbooks. Those who do not buy such textbooks fail such courses after exams. This step by the rector comes as a relief to all of us in this school.”
Anita, a student from the Department of Accountancy, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the pervasive problem of forced textbook purchases in higher education. She believes the Rector’s directive will alleviate significant pressure on students.
Another student, who preferred to remain anonymous due to personal reasons and is from the Department of Environmental Design, expressed little surprise at the Rector’s innovative changes. This student pointed to Dr. Awuzie’s long-standing connection with the institution, having served in various capacities from lecturer to director before becoming Rector.
“She understands everything about this institution,” the student remarked. “So, whenever she takes any positive decision, it does not surprise me.”
The series of reforms initiated by Dr. Awuzie signals a strong commitment to fostering a more equitable and supportive learning environment at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, aiming to ensure that academic success is based on merit rather than the ability to afford supplementary materials.
