The Kogi State Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector, outlawing signing-out ceremonies in all tertiary institutions and replacing annual graduation ceremonies in primary and secondary schools with the traditional speech and prize-giving day.
The State Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, disclosed this on Wednesday in Lokoja during a meeting with stakeholders in the sector.
Jones explained that the decision followed public outcry over the negative activities associated with signing-out ceremonies, as well as the economic strain frequent graduation parties placed on parents.
“The practice of incessant graduation ceremonies in primary and secondary schools is becoming economically unaffordable, puts undue pressure on parents, and attracts some social ills associated with such celebrations. The practice is now abolished in the state,” he said.
According to him, graduation ceremonies will henceforth only be permitted after SSS 3 examinations, and only when deemed necessary.
Other measures announced include:
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Ban on converting textbooks into workbooks, with parents directed to buy notebooks for assignments so textbooks can be reused by siblings.
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Mandatory mock examinations for WAEC candidates, with schools that fail to comply barred from presenting students for the final exams.
Jones stressed that the government was determined to implement the state education law without compromise, warning that schools or individuals who attempt to undermine the policy will face sanctions.
