The Benue State Government has implemented a ban on graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and primary school pupils, effective immediately. This decision was announced by Mrs. Helen Nambativ, the Acting Commissioner of the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management, in Makurdi. According to Nambativ, schools that fail to comply with the directive risk facing sanctions, including temporary closure.
The government’s new education policy aims to promote discipline and sanity in the basic education sector. By banning graduation parties, the state government seeks to reduce unnecessary expenses for parents and refocus schools on academic excellence. Nambativ emphasized that the directive is meant to prioritize meaningful learning outcomes over social events.
A memo issued by the ministry on August 21 had already informed schools of the government’s decision. The policy also abolishes the use of restricted, customized education materials, such as text and exercise books, which are non-transferrable to subsequent learners. Instead, schools are directed to revert to the traditional practice of senior students passing down books to pupils in lower classes.
Additionally, the policy puts an end to compulsory and extended lessons after regular school hours, except in cases where parental consent is obtained. The abolition of compulsory school graduation ceremonies, particularly for kindergarten, nursery, and basic schools, is also a key aspect of the new policy.
Some stakeholders have expressed concerns about the timing of the policy, arguing that schools should have been given more time to adjust. A school proprietor in Makurdi, who wished to remain anonymous, suggested that a phase-out period of at least a year would have been more practical. On the other hand, parents like Mr. James Bemgba have welcomed the move, citing the relief it brings to parents who were previously burdened with unnecessary expenses.
The Benue State Government’s decision is part of a broader effort to reform the education sector and prioritize academic excellence. With the new policy in place, schools will be expected to adapt and comply to avoid facing sanctions. A task force will be established to ensure compliance, and schools that flout the policy risk losing their license to operate. As the 2025/2026 academic session approaches, the state government’s education policy is set to have a significant impact on the basic education sector in Benue State.
