The Abia State Government has announced a new policy prohibiting the transfer of students between schools once they reach Senior Secondary 2 (SS2) and Senior Secondary 3 (SS3), in a move officials say is designed to strengthen accountability in the state’s education sector.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, was disclosed on Tuesday in Umuahia by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi. He explained that the measure would apply across both public and private secondary schools operating in the state.
According to the commissioner, the policy forms part of broader reforms aimed at reducing examination malpractice and ensuring that students complete their academic journey under proper monitoring. He noted that the state government has observed a pattern where students switch schools shortly before their final examinations, often to manipulate academic records or gain unfair advantages.
In addition to the transfer ban, the government has introduced a compulsory state-organised promotion examination for all SS2 students seeking to advance to SS3. Ubochi said this evaluation would serve as a benchmark for academic progression, adding that only students who meet the required standard will be allowed to move into their final year of secondary education.
“This measure is designed to uphold the integrity of our education system,” the commissioner stated. “By ensuring that students earn their promotion into SS3 through merit, we are addressing the root causes of malpractice and restoring public confidence in the quality of education in Abia State.”
Education stakeholders have described the policy as a welcome step but emphasized the need for transparent implementation. They called on the government to provide adequate support, especially in rural schools, to ensure that students are well-prepared for the promotion examinations.
The Abia State Government reiterated its commitment to raising educational standards, stressing that reforms such as the transfer ban and compulsory promotion exams are necessary to produce disciplined, well-grounded graduates capable of competing at both national and international levels.
