Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in Imo State has directed that only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 students are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies, even as it introduced a compulsory four-year usage period for government-approved textbooks across schools.
The new policy was contained in a circular issued by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education on August 8, 2025, and addressed to parents, guardians, stakeholders, and proprietors of schools across the state.
According to the circular, graduation parties and ceremonies for pupils in Kindergarten, Nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 have been abolished. The ministry explained that the decision is in line with the 6-3-3-4 education system and is intended to help schools, parents, and learners concentrate more on academic achievements rather than social activities.
“Graduation ceremonies are henceforth permitted only for Primary 6 and SS3 students. This measure is designed to ensure that attention is placed on core academic milestones, while reducing the financial burden that such events place on parents,” the statement said.
On textbook usage, the government directed all schools, including faith-based and private institutions, to strictly adhere to the approved list of textbooks provided by the ministry. It further stated that each set of textbooks must be used for at least four academic sessions, allowing siblings to benefit without the need for constant purchase of new editions.
The ministry noted that the four-year textbook cycle is aimed at promoting stability, consistency, and affordability in the education system. “This policy will reduce unnecessary expenses for parents and also ensure uniformity in the learning process across schools in the state,” the circular added.
