The Imo State Government has announced a major shake-up in the state’s education sector, banning graduation ceremonies for nursery and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) pupils, while also stopping the yearly change of textbooks in schools.
Commissioner for Education, Prof. Johncliff Nwadike, disclosed the new directives, stressing that the government was determined to curb what it described as “unnecessary financial burdens” on parents and guardians. He explained that hosting elaborate graduation parties for nursery and JSS3 students was wasteful and distracting, as pupils at those levels had not yet completed their basic academic journey.
“In many cases, parents are forced to spend huge sums on ceremonies that add no real value to the child’s learning. This government will no longer tolerate such practices,” the Commissioner stated.
On the issue of textbooks, Prof. Nwadike emphasized that the practice of schools changing learning materials every academic session was exploitative and must stop immediately. According to him, approved textbooks should be used for at least three years before any review, allowing parents to reuse books for younger children and drastically reducing costs.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders. While many parents welcomed the move, describing it as a “relief from unnecessary expenses,” some school operators expressed concerns that it could limit their flexibility in curriculum delivery.
Education analysts, however, praised the government’s decision, arguing that it would help redirect resources to more meaningful investments in teaching and learning.
With the new policy in place, the Imo State Government says it is committed to making education more affordable and sustainable for families across the state.
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