The Ebonyi State Government has banned graduation ceremonies for pre-nursery, nursery, and primary school pupils as part of sweeping educational reforms aimed at improving academic standards.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Donatus Ilang, and released to Channels Television on Thursday.
According to the statement, graduation ceremonies will now be limited to students who complete Junior Secondary School (JSS3) and Senior Secondary School (SS3). Pupils in kindergarten, nursery, and Primary 6 are no longer permitted to hold graduation events.
“These ceremonies are strictly reserved for those who have completed basic and senior secondary education,” the statement read.
As part of the reforms, the government also banned compulsory after-school lessons and mandated the exclusive use of government-approved textbooks. Schools found violating these directives will face sanctions.
The statement further warned that private and faith-based schools operating without proper approval or qualified staff will be shut down. Parents were advised to withdraw their children from such institutions and enroll them in government-recognized schools.
In a major policy shift, the government has also introduced compulsory entrepreneurship and skill acquisition training in schools. Students will now be required to graduate with certificates in these areas alongside their academic qualifications, such as the First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) or Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
“This initiative ensures students leave school not just with academic knowledge, but with practical skills,” the government said.
The reforms, according to the state, are designed to instill discipline, raise educational standards, and equip students with the tools needed for both further studies and the workforce.
