The Edo State Government has introduced comprehensive reforms in the education sector, including a ban on graduation parties for nursery and primary school pupils.
According to a statement from the state Ministry of Education, the new policies will take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session and also include mandatory entrepreneurship training for junior secondary students and a textbook reuse initiative.
The Ministry explained that these measures aim to enhance stability, consistency, and quality learning across schools in Edo State.
Under the new guidelines, younger siblings will be allowed to reuse approved textbooks purchased by their older siblings, with each textbook approved for use over a minimum of four years before being reviewed.
Graduation ceremonies will now only be permitted for pupils completing Basic Education (Primary 1 to JSS 3) and Senior Secondary 3 (SSS 3), with celebrations kept modest and prom parties banned.
Graduation ceremonies and parties will no longer be allowed for pre-basic and primary school pupils.
In a significant policy change, all JSS 3 students will be required to complete compulsory entrepreneurship training before graduation. Starting next academic session, every JSS 3 graduate will receive two certificates: the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and a Skills Acquisition Certificate in their chosen trade.
The Ministry stated these reforms are part of ongoing efforts to ensure Edo students graduate not only academically prepared but also equipped with practical entrepreneurial skills to succeed in a competitive world.
