Soludo Introduces New School Dismissal Time, Bans Extension Classes in Anambra

The government of Anambra State, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has announced the adoption of United Nations (UN) recommended school hours, aiming to conclude daily academic activities by 2:30 pm.

This decision, revealed by the Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, is a strategic step towards enhancing the well-being of school children, allowing them more time to rest and engage with their families before the next academic day.

This new directive, emphasizing the importance of a balanced schedule for students, seeks to ensure that children are back in the comfort of their homes by 3 pm. The move is seen as a response to concerns raised about the lengthy hours children spend in school, which have been described as detrimental to both their physical health and familial relationships.

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has been a vocal critic of the existing system, which often sees students engaged in lessons from early in the morning until the evening, leaving little room for personal development or family time. The bishop’s advocacy for a more balanced approach to schooling has highlighted the need for a system that supports not just academic excellence, but also the overall growth and well-being of the students.

With this policy, Anambra State sets a precedent for other states to follow, recognizing the critical role that a balanced educational schedule plays in nurturing well-rounded students.