The Imo State Government has rolled out new education policies aimed at reducing costs for parents and ensuring schools focus more on academics than ceremonies.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Education, Bernard Ikegwuoha, the government announced a ban on graduation ceremonies for nursery and JSS3 students. Only pupils finishing Primary 6 and students completing SS3 will now be allowed to hold graduation ceremonies, in line with Nigeria’s official 6-3-3-4 education system.

The state also banned the yearly change of textbooks by schools, a practice that has long placed a financial burden on parents. Instead, both public and private schools must now use approved textbooks for at least four years, allowing siblings to share materials and saving families extra costs.

Ikegwuoha explained that the measures were designed to curb unnecessary expenses, promote consistency in learning, and create a stable academic environment for children.

“Proprietors must adhere to the approved textbook list to reduce costs and maintain consistency. These measures reflect the State Government’s commitment to creating a financially sustainable and academically focused education system,” he said.

The Commissioner further stressed that the government remains committed to providing quality and functional education, and will continue to discourage policies that impose avoidable financial strain on parents.

With these new steps, the state hopes to strike a balance between academic excellence and affordability, ensuring that education in Imo remains both effective and accessible.