Ondo State Cracks Down on Elaborate Graduation Ceremonies
Ondo, Nigeria – The Ondo State Government has banned elaborate graduation ceremonies for nursery and Junior Secondary School (JSS) students, as part of a wider reform to improve standards in the state’s education sector.
The announcement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting with private school owners from all 18 local government areas. Education Commissioner Professor Igbekele Ajibefun said the decision aims to curb unnecessary spending and activities that distract students from academic work.
“Ondo State has to step in to ban elaborate graduation ceremonies, especially for nursery and JSS classes. These events are unnecessary for non-exit classes,” Ajibefun said.
The government also outlined other measures, including the re-accreditation of all private schools, prohibition of unregistered schools, strict enforcement of approved curricula, and compliance with the official school calendar and public holidays.
For more on this story, see our previous report: Imo State Government Bans Graduation Parties for Nursery, JSS3 Students, Enforces Four-Year Textbook Policy https://www.dailyobserver.ng/imo-state-government-bans-graduation-parties-for-nursery-jss3-students-enforces-four-year-textbook-policy/
Ajibefun warned against underage admissions, use of unapproved curricula, and unauthorized school excursions, adding that all trips must receive clearance from the Ministry of Education. Illegal schools have been given six months to obtain approval.
On textbooks, the Commissioner directed that schools should allow siblings to reuse books and stop forcing parents to purchase new sets each session. He also revealed plans to digitize all primary and secondary schools to improve learning and streamline administration.
Ajibefun emphasized that the government would not compromise on minimum standards, cautioning that schools failing to meet requirements “should find another business.”
Private school owners commended the reforms but requested additional time to meet accreditation requirements and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks.
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