By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The Ogun State Government has prohibited graduation ceremonies and end-of-session celebrations for learners in nursery, kindergarten and other non-terminal classes in both public and private schools across the state.

The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Department of Private Schools, and signed by the Director of Education (Private Schools), A.A. Bisiriyu, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary.

According to the circular dated June 18, 2026, the decision was taken following concerns raised by stakeholders and in the interest of protecting parents and guardians from unnecessary financial burdens associated with elaborate school ceremonies.

The government clarified that graduation activities should be restricted to learners completing recognised stages of education, namely Primary Six, Junior Secondary School Three (JSS3), and Senior Secondary School Three (SSS3).

It further directed that graduation ceremonies for these terminal classes must be conducted modestly and at no financial cost to learners, parents or guardians. The use of canopies, Aso Ebi, customised attire and other forms of extravagant social displays during graduation ceremonies was also strictly prohibited.

The ministry encouraged schools to focus more on academic recognition and character development rather than elaborate social events that place undue financial pressure on families.

Proprietors, school heads and administrators have been directed to give the circular wide publicity and ensure strict compliance, warning that violators would face sanctions in line with regulations guiding school operations in Ogun State.