In a bold move aimed at reducing educational expenses, the Imo State Government has prohibited graduation ceremonies for nursery, kindergarten, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) students.
The policy, introduced via a memo dated August 15, 2025, shifts celebratory focus to Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students, aligning with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education structure.
Signed by Education Commissioner Professor Bernard Ikegwuoha (reference: MOEPS/COMMR/2025/VOL. 1/155), the memo emphasizes that academic achievement—not festive flair—should mark key educational milestones.
In tandem, the state introduced a new policy to curb “textbook extortion.” Schools are now required to adopt a four-year textbook usage cycle, ensuring siblings can reuse the same books and providing financial relief to families. Proprietors of faith-based and private schools have been strictly warned to adhere to the approved textbook lists.
The reforms take immediate effect across both public and private primary and secondary schools statewide.
