Another APC Governor Bans Nursery, Primary School Graduation, Introduces Skills Certificate Policy
- Basic schools in Ebonyi state have been banned from holding graduation ceremonies, as the state government said they are exclusively reserved for students who have completed JSS3 and SS3
- Ebonyi government, led by Governor Nwifuru, also banned compulsory lessons for students and pupils in schools across the state with immediate effect
- The state government introduced a new skill education policy and ordered the closure of all private and faith-based schools operating within the state illegally
Legit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements.
The Ebonyi state government led by Governor Francis Nwifuru, on Thursday, September 4, banned graduation ceremonies for pre-nursery, nursery, and primary school pupils in line with the state’s ongoing educational reforms.

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The decision was announced in a press statement signed by the Ebonyi state commissioner for education, primary and secondary, Donatus Ilang, announced this in a statement issued on Thursday.
According to the statement, graduation ceremonies are exclusively reserved for students who have completed basic education (JSS3) and Senior Secondary school (SS3), adding that pre-basic kindergarten/nursery and Primary 6 pupils will no longer have graduation ceremonies.
As reported by Channels TV, Ilang noted that schools have been directed to stop compulsory lessons for students after school activities, adding that schools must use only government-approved textbooks across the state.

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“Any school found violating this order will be sanctioned. Schools must use only government-approved textbooks.”
He further revealed that the Ebonyi government has ordered the immediate closure of all unapproved private and faith-based schools operating within the state.
“Parents are advised to withdraw their wards from unapproved schools and enroll them in government-approved institutions,” the government warned.
Ebonyi govt introduces skills certificate policy
To further enhance education quality in the state, Governor Nwifuru stated that entrepreneurship and skill acquisition are now compulsory subjects, with students expected to graduate with certificates in those areas alongside their First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) or Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
“The introduction of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition is to ensure our students do not only pass through school but also leave with practical knowledge. Henceforth, students of JSS3 and SS3 must receive their Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Certificates upon graduation,” it said.
Kogi, Imo bans graduation ceremonies in state schools
Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that Just like Imo state, the Kogi government has banned graduation ceremonies in basic and secondary schools across the state.
Governor Usman Ododo-led government said the move is aimed at easing the financial burden on parents and guardians.
This was as Governor Hope Uzodimma cited the financial burden such ceremonies place on parents and guardians.
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Adamawa education board bans marker day celebration
Similarly, Legit.ng reported that the Adamawa State Ministry of Education placed a strict ban on the "Maker Day" celebration by Senior Secondary Certificate Examination candidates.
Legit.ng gathered that the education board is taking actions to maintain the positive change in the sector to provide adequate learning skills and moral conduct, under the leadership of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
Source: Legit.ng