Imo State Government Bans Graduation Ceremonies for Kindergarten, Nursery, and JSS 3 Students
Owerri, August 8, 2025 – The Imo State Ministry of Education has announced a new policy affecting public and private primary and secondary schools across the state. The policy, contained in an official circular signed by the Office of the Honourable Commissioner for Education, sets new guidelines on graduation ceremonies and textbook usage in schools.
According to the Ministry, only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies under the 6-3-3-4 education system. This means graduation parties for Kindergarten, Nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) students are now abolished.
The government explained that the decision was made to ensure that parents, guardians, and schools place more emphasis on academic achievements at the end of primary and secondary education cycles, rather than on elaborate celebrations.
In addition, the Ministry also introduced a new policy on textbook usage. To promote stability and consistency in education, schools are required to strictly adhere to the approved list of textbooks. These books, the circular notes, are designed to be used for a minimum of four years, allowing younger siblings of pupils and students to benefit from them consecutively.
The directive applies to both faith-based and private schools, with the state government stressing that the move will reduce the financial burden on parents and bring uniformity to the learning process.
The circular, dated August 8, 2025, and addressed to all parents, guardians, and stakeholders in the Imo State school system, aligns with the government’s broader commitment to providing quality, functional, and affordable education.
This policy comes as part of the state’s 3R initiative – Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Recovery – aimed at revamping the education sector and ensuring sustainable reforms.
