The Imo State Government has banned graduation parties for graduation ceremonies and parties for Kindergarten, Nursery, and Junior Secondary School (JSS3) students in a bid to ease financial pressure on parents and focus attention on academics.
It also warned Proprietors to desist from frequent textbook changes in private and faith-based schools, describing the practice as a financial burden on families.
To this end, the state government directed that approved textbooks be used for at least four years, allowing siblings to share them across sessions.
Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, announced the policy in a memo dated August 15, 2025, addressed to parents, guardians, and school proprietors.
He noted that the directive, effective immediately, allows graduation ceremonies only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.
The measures, the commissioner said, are designed to create a more efficient and financially sustainable education system that benefits students, parents, and the wider public.
Ikegwuoha stated: “The Ministry is committed to providing quality and functional education to all students in the state. Graduation ceremonies and parties for Kindergarten, Nursery, and JSS3 students are hereby abolished.
“This policy ensures focus on academic achievements at the completion of primary and secondary education cycles.
“Proprietors are warned to desist from frequent textbook changes. Adopting the approved list for four years promotes stability, reduces costs for parents, and enhances a consistent learning environment.”