Imo State Prohibits Nursery schools, JSS Graduation Parties, Limits Yearly Textbook Revisions
The Imo State Government has prohibited graduation parties for nursery and Junior Secondary School (JSS3) students in an effort to alleviate financial pressure on parents and concentrate on academic pursuits.
.Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, Commissioner for Education, issued a memo dated August 15, 2025, to parents, guardians, and school proprietors, announcing a policy that restricts graduation ceremonies to Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 students, consistent with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.
“The Ministry is committed to providing quality and functional education to all students in the state,” the Commissioner said. “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.”
Ikegwuoha also addressed the yearly change of textbooks in private and faith-based schools, describing the practice as a financial burden on families. He directed that approved textbooks be used for at least four years, allowing siblings to share them across sessions.
“Proprietors are warned to desist from frequent textbook changes,” he stated. “Adopting the approved list for four years promotes stability, reduces costs for parents, and enhances a consistent learning environment.”
As stated by the Commissioner, the measures are designed to foster a more efficient and financially sustainable education system, ultimately benefiting students, parents, and society at large
