The Ogun State Government has banned extravagant graduation parties across schools in the state, restricting official ceremonies to only three major academic transition levels. The move, according to the government, is aimed at curbing the growing culture of flamboyant celebrations associated with non-essential academic stages and easing the financial burden on parents.
Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, announced the directive while briefing journalists on preparations for the 2024/2025 academic session.
He explained that while graduation remains an important academic milestone, many schools have turned it into expensive social events, particularly at the nursery, kindergarten, and other non-transition stages. This, he said, has created unnecessary pressure on parents and diluted the true essence of academic progress.
“Graduation ceremonies should be modest and reflect true academic milestones, rather than turning into lavish social events,” Arigbabu stated.
Six-Year Textbook Policy Introduced
In addition to the new rules on graduation, the Ogun State Government has also directed that schools adhere strictly to a six-year cycle before changing prescribed textbooks. The commissioner noted that many parents have been forced to buy new books almost every school session, a practice the government now considers exploitative.
“Quality education does not depend on frequent textbook changes but on effective teaching and the proper use of available resources,” Arigbabu said. He warned that schools found imposing unnecessary book changes would face sanctions.
Broader Efforts to Ease Parents’ Burden
The commissioner stressed that the dual policy, graduation restrictions and textbook regulation is part of a wider government initiative to make education both affordable and effective for Ogun State families.
He assured that the ministry would closely monitor compliance and urged school administrators, teachers, and parents to cooperate fully with the directive.
“This decision is in the best interests of learners and their families alike,” Arigbabu emphasized.
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