Benue Government Abolishes Graduation Ceremonies in Nursery and Basic Schools

The Benue State Government has outlawed graduation ceremonies for pupils in kindergarten, nursery, and basic schools across the state, describing the practice as unnecessary and burdensome for parents.

The directive was contained in a circular signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management, Mrs. Helen Zeramo, and released on August 15, 2025.

According to the government, the decision takes effect from the beginning of the 2025/2026 academic session.

Explaining the rationale behind the move, Mrs. Zeramo said many of the ceremonies had become financial liabilities for parents, who were often compelled to buy special uniforms, costumes, and souvenirs.

She noted that while the events were colorful, they contributed little to the academic growth of the pupils and diverted attention from the real purpose of schooling.

In addition to banning graduation events, the state government also prohibited the use of customized textbooks in schools.

It argued that the practice prevented textbooks from being reused by younger pupils and forced parents to purchase new books every session. Instead, schools have been directed to embrace the traditional culture of passing down books from senior to junior students.

The government equally placed restrictions on after-school classes. It stressed that no school should organize compulsory extended lessons for pupils without the clear consent of parents.

While not outlawing extra classes, the Ministry insisted they must remain optional, so as not to impose additional financial strain on families.

“These reforms are part of efforts to refocus our education system on affordability, sustainability, and academic excellence. We cannot continue to allow practices that exploit parents under the guise of celebrations or customized learning materials,” the circular stated.

To ensure smooth enforcement, the government has scheduled a stakeholders’ meeting with school proprietors, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), and other education stakeholders for Tuesday, August 26, 2025. The forum will provide an avenue to clarify issues and secure cooperation from all players in the education sector.

Reactions to the directive have so far been divided. While some parents commended the move as a timely relief from unnecessary levies, others argued that graduation ceremonies play a symbolic role in motivating children and marking educational milestones. School proprietors, meanwhile, are expected to present their positions during the scheduled meeting with government officials.

With this policy, Benue State becomes one of the first in the country to implement a comprehensive clampdown on practices viewed as commercializing early education.