The Imo State Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector, banning graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) students, while also directing schools to stop the yearly change of textbooks.
This was contained in a memo dated August 15, 2025, signed by the State Commissioner for Education, Professor Bernard Ikegwuoha.
The government said the measures were introduced to curb unnecessary financial burdens on parents and guardians, who are often compelled to spend heavily on ceremonies and repeatedly purchase new textbooks.
According to the Commissioner, the government observed that some schools had turned graduation events into elaborate social gatherings, diverting attention from the academic focus of children.
“The Ministry hereby directs that all forms of graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and JSS3 students are henceforth abolished. Schools are also warned to desist from the annual change of textbooks, which has placed undue pressure on parents,” the memo stated.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among parents and stakeholders in the education sector.
While some parents welcomed the decision, calling it a relief from exploitative practices, others argued that graduation ceremonies are important for motivating children and marking key milestones.
A parent in Owerri said:
“It is a good policy because schools have turned graduation into a money-making venture. But at the same time, it would have been better if the government allowed small recognition ceremonies in schools.”
Education experts say the ban could reset priorities in early education, emphasizing learning outcomes over social displays.
Dr. Adaobi Okeke, an education consultant, said the yearly change of textbooks has been a major economic strain on families:
“Sometimes the content in the so-called new editions is not different from the old ones, yet parents are forced to buy them. This decision, if enforced properly, will bring sanity to the system.”
The Ministry of Education has directed all school proprietors and principals in Imo State to comply immediately, warning that defaulters will face sanctions.
The statement emphasized that schools should focus on improving academic standards, teacher quality, and student performance, rather than hosting expensive social events.
With the new policy in effect, Imo schools will now be expected to adjust their practices ahead of the next academic session. The government insists the measures are part of broader reforms to make education more affordable and parent-friendly across the state.
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