The Ebonyi State government has placed a ban on graduation ceremonies for pre-nursery, nursery, and primary school pupils in the state.
Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Donatus Ilang, announced the decision in Abakaliki, saying only students completing JSS3 and SS3 will be allowed to hold graduation ceremonies.
“Graduation ceremonies are exclusively reserved for pupils and students who have successfully completed basic education (JSS3) and Senior Secondary (SS3). In view of the above, pre-basic (kindergarten/nursery) and Primary 6 are banned from holding graduation ceremonies forthwith,” Ilang stated.
He explained that the move is part of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s ongoing education reforms aimed at improving standards in Ebonyi schools.
The Commissioner also directed that compulsory after-school lessons should stop with immediate effect. “The state government has banned compulsory lessons for students and pupils in schools across the state. Any school found violating this order will be sanctioned,” he warned.
Ilang further said that unapproved or unqualified private and faith-based schools would be shut down. “Parents are advised to withdraw their wards from unapproved schools and enroll them in government-approved institutions,” he added.
Other highlights of the reforms include:
Schools must use only government-approved textbooks.
Grading will now be based on pass or fail, except for first, second, and third positions. “Students who fail promotion exams must repeat the class,” Ilang noted.
Entrepreneurship and skill acquisition are now compulsory subjects, with students expected to graduate with certificates in those areas alongside their FSLC or SSCE.
“The introduction of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition is to ensure our students do not only pass through school but also leave with practical knowledge. Henceforth, students of JSS3 and SS3 must receive their Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Certificates upon graduation,” the Commissioner said.
The Ebonyi government stressed that the measures are designed to instill discipline, standardize learning, and prepare students for both higher education and the job market.
