By Esohe Aifuwa
Imo State Bans Kindergarten Graduation Parties to Ease Parents’ Burden
The Imo State Government has introduced a new policy banning graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School (JSS) students, aiming to lessen financial pressures on families and prioritize children’s academic growth.
The directive also prohibits schools from frequently changing textbooks, a practice seen as costly for parents.
Announced in a memo dated August 15, 2025, from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the policy takes effect immediately and applies to all public and private schools in the state.
According to the memo, only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School students can hold graduation ceremonies, aligning with the 6-3-3-4 education system.
The government also mandated that schools use an approved list of textbooks for at least four years, allowing siblings to reuse materials and reducing costs for families. The Education Commissioner, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, emphasized that the measures aim to create a more affordable and focused education system for students and parents alike.
“These changes will promote stability and ensure our schools focus on quality learning rather than unnecessary expenses,” Ikegwuoha said in the memo addressed to parents, guardians, and school proprietors.
The policy has sparked positive reactions across Imo State, with many parents taking to social media to praise the move. They described it as a relief from excessive fees charged by some schools, particularly private and faith-based institutions, for lavish graduation events.
The ministry warned that it would enforce compliance and penalize schools that fail to follow the new guidelines. The government hopes these reforms will foster a stronger, more equitable education system for all students in Imo State.
