Owerri, August 16, 2025 - SkyDNews

The Imo State Ministry of Education has announced new policies affecting public and private schools across the state, restricting graduation ceremonies to only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary 3 (SS3) students while enforcing stricter textbook usage regulations.   In a circular signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Education and released on August 8, 2025, the ministry stated that graduation parties for Kindergarten, Nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 students have been abolished.   According to the statement, the decision is aimed at ensuring that schools, parents, and stakeholders concentrate on the academic performance of pupils and students rather than on elaborate celebrations.   The circular emphasized that under Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, only Primary 6 pupils and SS3 students are eligible for graduation ceremonies.   Additionally, the Ministry directed all private and faith-based schools in the state to strictly adhere to the government-approved list of textbooks. It further stipulated that the books are to be used for a minimum of four years, allowing younger siblings to reuse them.   The Education Commissioner described the policy as a step towards stabilizing the school system, reducing unnecessary financial burdens on parents, and improving learning consistency across schools in Imo State.   SkyDNews gathered that the new directive has sparked mixed reactions among parents, with some welcoming the cost-cutting measures, while others argue that graduation ceremonies for younger classes serve as motivation for children.   The Ministry, however, maintained that the reforms will strengthen the focus on quality education and ensure students are assessed based on merit rather than celebrations.