The Osun State Government has announced a ban on graduation ceremonies for nursery and kindergarten pupils across public and private schools in the state.
The directive was contained in a circular signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, M.A.K. Jimoh, and addressed to key stakeholders in the education sector.
According to the circular, the decision followed concerns over the financial burden placed on parents, loss of instructional time, and the increasing commercialization of early childhood education through elaborate ceremonies.
The Ministry stated that graduation ceremonies and parties would only be permitted for pupils completing Primary 6 and students in Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3).
The circular also emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring quality and functional education, urging schools to focus on academic achievements rather than elaborate celebrations.
On textbook usage, the Ministry directed proprietors of faith-based and private schools to adhere to the approved list of textbooks, stressing that they must be used for at least three years. Pupils are also expected to use textbooks previously used by their siblings for three consecutive years.
The directive further banned the use of workbooks inside textbooks, explaining that each textbook must last beyond a single session. Schools found violating the policy will face disciplinary actions, including fines or suspension of registration.
The Ministry added that monitoring teams will conduct random checks to ensure compliance and called on schools, parents, and stakeholders to cooperate in upholding the integrity and purpose of education in the state.
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