The Imo State Government has issued new directives aimed at cutting costs for parents and redirecting attention to academic performance at key stages of schooling.
On the 15th of August, 2025, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Bernard Ikegwuoha, released a memo announcing the ban on graduation ceremonies for pupils in nursery, kindergarten, and JSS 3 classes across the state.
The directive, addressed to parents, guardians, and school owners, makes it clear that only Primary 6 leavers and Senior Secondary School graduates will be allowed to hold graduation events.
“Henceforth, graduation ceremonies and parties for Kindergarten, Nursery, and JSS 3 students are hereby abolished,” the commissioner wrote, stressing that the state wants parents to focus on actual academic milestones instead of spending heavily on unnecessary festivities.
No more yearly change of textbooks
Beyond the ban on parties, the commissioner also addressed the practice of schools frequently changing textbooks.
He stated that government-approved books must now remain in use for at least four years. According to him, this move would allow younger siblings to reuse materials, reduce the pressure on parents, and maintain teaching consistency.
“Proprietors of faith-based and private schools must adhere to the approved list of textbooks. Frequent changes are financially burdensome for parents and undermine educational stability. By adopting the approved textbooks for the specified period, schools can foster a more efficient and effective learning environment,” he explained.
Strict enforcement across schools
Professor Ikegwuoha made it clear that these directives apply immediately to both public and private schools. He added that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education would actively monitor compliance to ensure that the policy is followed without delay.
“By implementing these guidelines, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education aims to promote a more focused and efficient educational system in Imo State, ultimately benefiting students, parents, guardians and the broader community,” he said.
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NOA endorses the move
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has thrown its weight behind the government’s decision.
In a statement released on Monday, the 18th of August, 2025, its Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the measures as a necessary step to correct “wasteful and socially unproductive practices” in the education sector.
Mr Issa-Onilu praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for “setting a standard that prioritises value reorientation, discipline, and responsible upbringing” while rejecting what he called “an unhealthy culture” of excessive display among schoolchildren.
“Early exposure to lavish celebrations distorts the values of hard work, humility, and delayed gratification which are essential for personal growth and national development,” he said.
He further urged other states to follow Imo’s example, noting that the decision reinforces discipline, resilience, and focus on learning.
“The policy contributes to a healthier educational environment by emphasising academic focus over extravagant celebrations during the early stages of schooling,” the NOA boss added.