The worst thing here is the inconsistency. If the App Store had no "training video" type apps, then one might disagree with the policy, but at least it wouldn't

The worst thing here is the inconsistency. If the App Store had no "training video" type apps, then one might disagree with the policy, but at least it wouldn't feel so arbitrary. Allowing some, but not others - plus changing their mind half way though - puts Apple in a bad light. They also need to ensure that their "suggestions" are possible. In this, I think their policies in one area are just evolving faster than those in another. I'd hope that anyone could submit video content in the not to distant future, as part of a "Tutorial" category or similar. In terms of pragmatics, have you considered doing an interactive iBook? Videos, plus diagrams and text would seem to be more useful than just a video anyway, and (IIRC) anyone can submit an iBook.