Federal Polytechnic Oko Implements Ban on Lecturers Selling Textbooks Directly to Students
In a significant policy shift aimed at curbing academic exploitation, the Federal Polytechnic in Oko, Anambra State, has officially prohibited lecturers from selling textbooks directly to students. The institution has mandated that all textbook sales must now be conducted exclusively through the official polytechnic bookshop, a move designed to ensure fairness and transparency in the distribution of academic materials.
Rector Issues Stern Warning Against Violations
Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, announced the ban during a meeting with the Students Union Government (SUG) executive on Wednesday, March 18. She explicitly warned that any lecturer caught bypassing this new regulation by selling textbooks directly to students would face strict disciplinary action. The rector emphasized that the polytechnic bookshop is now the sole approved channel for all textbook transactions, eliminating the previous practice where some lecturers personally marketed their materials to students.
Dr. Awuzie also abolished the appointment of Course Representatives specifically for textbook sales, clarifying that only Class Representatives are permitted in academic roles. She further cautioned that any student found engaging in extortion or unauthorized sales would also be subject to disciplinary measures, underscoring the institution's commitment to ethical conduct.
Students Hail Policy as Relief from Exploitation
The decision has been met with widespread approval from the student body, who have long complained about coercive practices by some lecturers. Students reported that certain lecturers made it compulsory to purchase their textbooks, with allegations that those who complied received higher marks, while others were disadvantaged academically.
Comrade Anuluonye Ifechukwu Joseph, the SUG President popularly known as 'Ancestor,' commended the rector's intervention. "We commend her for her courage in banning the direct sale of academic materials to students. Only people who do not attend higher institutions will not understand what indigent students go through," he stated. "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."
Personal Accounts Highlight Widespread Abuse
Anita, a student from the Department of Accountancy, shared her experience, noting that forceful textbook sales have been a major problem in higher education. "With the Rector's directive, students will heave a sigh of relief in one area of their academic pursuit," she said, expressing gratitude for the policy change.
Another student from the Department of Environmental Design, who requested anonymity, praised Dr. Awuzie's deep understanding of institutional issues. "She has been part of the system over the years. She had a successful career here, from lecturer to director, now to rector. She understands everything about this institution," the student remarked, highlighting the rector's insider perspective as key to effective reforms.
Background and Institutional Context
Federal Polytechnic Oko's move addresses a longstanding issue in Nigerian tertiary education, where some educators have been accused of using textbook sales as a means of exploitation. The policy aligns with broader efforts to enhance academic integrity and protect students from financial pressure. Dr. Awuzie, who assumed office with a track record of addressing student concerns promptly, has positioned this ban as part of her administration's commitment to creating a more equitable learning environment.
The enforcement of this rule through the official bookshop is expected to standardize textbook availability and pricing, ensuring that all students have equal access to required materials without fear of reprisal. As the polytechnic implements this change, it sets a precedent for other institutions grappling with similar challenges in academic material distribution.
