Imo State Govt Bans Nursery and JSS Graduation Parties, Restricts Yearly Textbook Changes

The Imo State Government has announced a ban on graduation parties for nursery and Junior Secondary School (JSS3) students, citing the need to reduce financial pressure on parents and strengthen focus on academics.

The policy, which takes immediate effect, permits graduation ceremonies only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.

Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, disclosed this in a memo addressed to parents, guardians, and school proprietors. “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,” he stated.

The Commissioner also tackled the issue of frequent textbook changes in private and faith-based schools, which he described as an unnecessary financial burden on families. He directed that approved textbooks must remain in use for a minimum of four years, allowing siblings to share them across sessions.

“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,” Ikegwuoha added.

The Ministry of Education emphasized that the new measures are designed to create a more efficient, cost-effective, and academically focused education system that benefits students, parents, and the public at large.