Imo State Bans Graduation Parties For Kindergarten, Nursery And JSS3 Pupils

The Imo State Government has introduced a sweeping reform in the education sector with the official ban on graduation parties for pupils in kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3). The new directive, according to the state, is aimed at easing financial pressure on parents while reinforcing the focus on academics.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, through a memo addressed to parents, guardians, and education stakeholders. The memo, dated August 15, 2025, with reference number MOEPS/COMMR/2025/VOL.1/155, outlined the new policy and clarified that only pupils in Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) are permitted to take part in graduation ceremonies, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.

In the memo, Prof. Ikegwuoha emphasized that the decision is part of the government’s broader agenda to promote stability and efficiency in the education sector. He noted that over the years, graduation ceremonies for lower classes had become unnecessarily elaborate, placing financial strain on parents and shifting attention away from academic development.

“Henceforth, ceremonies and parties for kindergarten, nursery, and JSS3 students are hereby abolished,” the commissioner declared. He explained that the practice had grown into a competitive social display, with parents often pressured into spending heavily on uniforms, costumes, food, and hall rentals.

The Commissioner stressed that the government’s focus is to ensure that education is seen as a continuous process, not a series of milestones marked by extravagant celebration.

Beyond graduation parties, the Imo State Government also issued fresh directives regarding the use of textbooks in schools. According to Ikegwuoha, all schools are to adopt the approved list of textbooks and maintain them for at least four years, thereby allowing siblings to reuse the same materials.

This policy, he argued, will curb the trend of schools frequently changing textbooks for commercial reasons, a practice that has long added to the financial burden of parents. “By adopting the approved textbooks and allowing them to be used for the specified period, schools can promote a more efficient and effective learning environment,” he said.

He further warned proprietors of private and faith-based schools against arbitrary changes, noting that the Ministry of Education will closely monitor compliance. Defaulters, he added, would face strict sanctions.

The ban on graduation parties has sparked mixed reactions among parents and education stakeholders across the state.

Some parents welcomed the policy, describing it as a much-needed relief. Mrs. Amaka Eze, a mother of three, said: “In recent years, schools have been demanding too much from parents for these so-called graduation ceremonies. From special uniforms to hall fees and souvenirs, the cost keeps rising. This new policy is a huge relief.”

Others, however, expressed reservations, especially regarding JSS3 pupils who are transitioning into senior secondary school. Mr. Chidi Okonkwo, a parent, noted: “While I understand the financial concerns, graduation ceremonies for JSS3 students help mark an important transition in their education. It motivates them and gives a sense of achievement. I think the government could regulate the ceremonies rather than abolish them completely.”

Some teachers and school proprietors also voiced concerns, arguing that graduation ceremonies help foster community spirit and encourage children. However, they acknowledged the financial strain and called for dialogue on how to balance celebration with affordability.

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The directive is expected to have a significant impact on private schools, many of which rely on elaborate graduation events as part of their annual calendar. The Commissioner’s warning against non-compliance signals the government’s seriousness in curbing excesses in the sector.

For faith-based institutions, where ceremonies are often tied to cultural or religious traditions, the ban presents a challenge. However, education experts argue that the government’s emphasis on academics and cost reduction outweighs the cultural attachment to such events.

Education analysts see the new measures as part of a broader policy shift in Imo State aimed at strengthening learning outcomes. By reducing unnecessary expenses on ceremonies and textbook changes, the government hopes to redirect resources toward teaching quality, infrastructure, and student welfare.

Prof. Ikegwuoha reiterated that the Ministry of Education remains committed to policies that support accessibility, affordability, and quality learning. He maintained that the ban is not intended to undermine cultural practices but to ensure that parents prioritize education over social pressures.

The ban on graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and JSS3 pupils marks a decisive step by the Imo State Government to ease financial strain on families and redirect focus toward academic growth. Alongside the new textbook policy, the directive underscores the government’s commitment to reshaping education practices in the state.

While reactions remain divided, the underlying message is clear, education in Imo State must be treated as a serious, continuous journey rather than an avenue for costly celebrations. As the policy takes effect, schools and parents will need to adjust, ensuring that the emphasis remains on learning, discipline, and long-term success for pupils.