In a clear move to save parents from unnecessary spending on their wards’ academic pursuits, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State intervenes in the wasteful graduation parties in nursery, primary and secondary schools, as well as annual change of textbooks
By Jude Nzennaya, Port Harcourt
Last week, the Imo State Government declared an immediate ban on graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School pupils in the state, stating that the measure would reduce financial burdens on parents, instead the governor redirected attention to the academic development of the children.
Governor Uzodinma’s directive was contained in a memo issued to that effect by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, which was addressed to parents, guardians, and stakeholders in the state’s education sector.
Prof. Ikegwuoha also directed school proprietors to stop the annual change of textbooks, which he described as financially draining the pockets of parents and guardians, as well as destabilising school children’s families.
According to the memo, the decision formed part of a new policy designed to promote a more focused and efficient education system that would benefit students, parents, and the wider society.
In the memo, dated August 15, 2025, with reference number MOEPS/COMMR/2025/VOL.1/155 and titled “Policy on Education for Public and Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Imo State,” the Imo State Government stated that the policy would commence with immediate effect.
The memo read, “The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in Imo State is committed to providing quality and functional education to all students.
To achieve this goal, the Ministry has established guidelines on graduation ceremonies and textbook usage in schools.
“Henceforth, ceremonies and parties for kindergarten, nursery, and JSS3 students are hereby abolished.”
The memo further stated that on textbook usage, schools must thenceforth adopt the approved list of textbooks and use them for a minimum of four years to enable siblings to reuse them.
It warned proprietors, especially in private and faith-based schools, against frequent change of textbooks, and noted that the practice imposed financial burden on parents and undermined educational stability in the state.
Hence, “By adopting the approved textbooks and allowing them to be used for the specified period, schools can promote a more efficient and effective learning environment,” the memo added.
The ministry said it would monitor compliance and take necessary action against defaulters.
