BREAKING: Edo Govt Suspends Nursery, Primary Graduation Parties, Introduces Mandatory Skill Certificate for JSS, Textbook Reuse

August 19, 2025 | Benin City In a decisive move to strengthen stability, consistency, and quality learning across all schools in Edo State, the Ministry of Education has announced sweeping reforms set to take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.

The new policies, unveiled on Tuesday, cover textbook reuse, graduation ceremony guidelines, and mandatory entrepreneurship certification for students completing Junior Secondary School (JSS).

1. Textbook Reuse Policy

To reduce financial burden on parents and promote sustainable learning practices, the Ministry introduced a Textbook Reuse Policy. Under this arrangement, younger siblings may use approved textbooks previously purchased by their older siblings.

All government-approved textbooks will remain in circulation for a minimum of four years before undergoing review. The Ministry noted that this policy will end frequent and costly textbook changes that often frustrate parents and disrupt consistency in classrooms.

2. Graduation Ceremony Guidelines

The government also issued strict guidelines regarding school graduation ceremonies.

• Graduation ceremonies are now reserved exclusively for pupils completing Basic Education (Primary 1–JSS 3) and Senior Secondary 3 (SSS 3).

• At these levels, schools may organise only modest, low-cost celebrations.

• Prom parties are strictly prohibited.

• Pre-basic classes — including nursery/kindergarten and Primary 6 — are barred from holding graduation ceremonies or parties.

The Ministry emphasised that the measure is intended to discourage unnecessary expenses, reduce social pressure on parents, and refocus attention on academic achievement rather than flamboyant ceremonies.

3. Mandatory Entrepreneurship Certification for JSS

Perhaps the boldest reform is the introduction of a mandatory entrepreneurship/skills certificate for all students completing Junior Secondary School.

Under the new rule, JSS 3 pupils must acquire practical skills training and certification in entrepreneurship, technical trades, or vocational competencies before moving to the next level of education.

According to the Ministry, this is to ensure that every student graduates with at least one marketable skill, regardless of whether they continue to senior secondary or pursue other career paths.

Government’s Position

Speaking on the reforms, the Commissioner for Education explained that the policies are designed to:

• Reduce financial pressure on families;

• Curb excessive social spending on parties.

• Equip students with relevant life skills early on; and

• Ensure consistency and stability in teaching resources.

These measures reflect the state government’s commitment to raising the standard of education in Edo State. We are prioritising the values of discipline, sustainability, and skill development as the foundation for lifelong success,” the Commissioner stated.

Reactions Expected

While many education stakeholders have praised the reforms as a step toward restoring discipline and reducing exploitation in the school system, the policies are also expected to spark mixed reactions among private school owners, parents, and students accustomed to the old practices.

The Ministry has assured that it will engage school administrators and parents’ associations in sensitisation campaigns to ensure smooth implementation from the next academic session.

📌 Summary: Edo State has banned nursery and primary school graduation parties, mandated entrepreneurship certification for JSS 3 students, and introduced a textbook reuse policy, all effective from the 2025/2026 session.