Ogun bans graduation, end-of-session parties across public, private schools

Ogun State's Ministry of Education has imposed new restrictions on graduation ceremonies and end-of-session parties in both public and private schools across the state. According to the directive, only students in Primary 6, Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3), and Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) will be permitted to participate in such events. This move aims to alleviate the financial strain on parents and guardians who are often asked to cover additional costs associated with these celebrations. The directive was issued following reports of alleged extortion by some school administrators, who reportedly pressured parents into paying extra fees under the pretense of organizing these events.

The circular, dated 17 June, was signed by A.A. Bisiriyu, the Director of Education for Private Schools, and sent to all school administrators. It explicitly prohibits the organization of graduation and end-of-session parties in all classes within both public and private schools. The ministry emphasized that this decision aligns with previous resolutions made during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption stakeholders' meeting held in September 2025 at Lisabi Grammar School Hall in Abeokuta, the state capital. The directive mandates that schools must publicize this information to all stakeholders to ensure complete adherence.

As the academic year draws to a close, with the 2025/2026 session expected to end by mid-July, the Ogun State Government is stepping in to regulate the typical end-of-year festivities in schools. This intervention follows earlier directives from the state government that banned graduation ceremonies for pupils in pre-basic and kindergarten levels, limiting such events solely to those completing Primary Six, JSS3, and SS3.

Ogun is not the only state implementing such measures. Other states, including Ekiti, Imo, Edo, Ebonyi, and Benue, have similarly introduced bans on nursery and primary school graduation parties. These actions reflect a broader effort to ease financial burdens on families and prevent exploitative practices by certain school proprietors. In many schools, particularly private ones, parents are frequently required to contribute to various expenses related to these events, such as venue decorations, entertainment, graduation gowns, photographs, and awards.

While some parents appreciate these celebrations as a means to acknowledge their children's achievements and mark significant academic milestones, others have voiced concerns about the increasing costs and the pressure placed on families amidst ongoing economic difficulties. The Ogun State Government appears determined to address these issues by ensuring that schools prioritize their educational roles rather than engaging in potentially exploitative practices. The ministry has clearly communicated that any institution found violating the directive will face sanctions in accordance with existing regulations.