Parents Angry as Edo Govt Bans School Graduation Parties in Edo
The Edo State Government has sparked outrage among parents after announcing sweeping reforms in the education sector, including a ban on graduation parties for nursery and primary school pupils.
The reforms, unveiled by the Ministry of Education, will take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session and are aimed at promoting stability, consistency, and quality learning across schools.
Graduation Parties Banned
Under the new policy, graduation ceremonies will now only be allowed for pupils completing Basic Education (Primary 1–JSS 3) and Senior Secondary 3 (SSS 3). Even at those levels, only modest school-based celebrations will be permitted. Prom-style parties have been outlawed entirely.
Pre-basic and primary school pupils will no longer be allowed to hold graduation parties, a move that has triggered criticism from many parents
Pre-basic and primary school pupils will no longer be allowed to hold graduation parties, a move that has triggered criticism from many parents who see these events as part of childhood milestones.
New Textbook and Entrepreneurship Rules
The state also introduced a textbook reuse policy, allowing younger siblings to use the same approved textbooks purchased by older siblings. Each approved book will remain in circulation for at least four years before review, cutting down costs for families.
In another major change, all JSS 3 students must undergo compulsory entrepreneurship training before graduation. Every JSS 3 graduate will now leave with two certificates:
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The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)
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A Skills Acquisition Certificate in their chosen trade subject
The government says the reforms will ensure students are not only academically sound but also equipped with practical entrepreneurial skills.
Parents React
While the government insists the measures will raise standards, the ban on school graduation parties has sparked debate across the state. Some parents argue that graduation ceremonies for younger pupils serve as motivation and a way to celebrate progress, while others say the money spent on elaborate parties could be better directed toward education.
