Edo State has rolled out major education reforms, banning graduation parties for nursery and primary pupils.
The policy also mandates entrepreneurship training and textbook reuse to reduce costs and boost learning.
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The Edo State Government has introduced a set of reforms aimed at reshaping the education system, with new rules set to begin in the 2025/2026 academic year. One of the major changes is the cancellation of graduation parties for children in nursery and primary schools.
The Ministry of Education explained that the decision was taken to promote order, stability, and stronger learning outcomes across schools in the state. Graduation ceremonies will now only be permitted for students finishing Basic Education, which covers Primary 1 to Junior Secondary 3, and for those completing Senior Secondary 3. Even at those levels, celebrations are expected to be modest, as elaborate prom-style events have been banned.
Another key policy is the reuse of textbooks. Parents will be able to pass down approved books from older to younger children, and each textbook will remain in use for at least four years before being reviewed. The government said this measure is aimed at reducing financial stress for families.
In addition, all Junior Secondary 3 students will now undergo mandatory entrepreneurship training. At the end of their studies, they will receive both the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) certificate and a Skills Acquisition Certificate in a specific trade.
The Ministry stated that the reforms are designed to not only strengthen academic learning but also to equip students with practical skills that will prepare them for the challenges of the modern world.
