Imo State Bans Nursery, JSS3 Graduation Ceremonies
The Imo State Government has announced an immediate ban on graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School pupils.
According to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, the move is aimed at reducing financial burdens on parents and ensuring that attention is redirected to the academic development of children.
In a memo dated August 15, 2025, the Ministry explained that only Primary 6 pupils and Senior Secondary School students are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies, in line with the 6-3-3-4 education system.
The policy also directs schools to stop the annual change of textbooks and instead adopt the approved list for at least four years, allowing siblings to reuse them and saving families from unnecessary costs.
Many parents and guardians across the state have welcomed the initiative, saying it will curb exploitative practices by some schools that use parties and frequent textbook changes to impose extra financial strain on households.
This policy resonates with the child’s right to education by making learning more affordable, and with the principle of the child’s best interests, ensuring that decisions within the education system are guided by what truly benefits children and their families.
