Osun Government Bans Nursery Graduation Ceremonies, Issues Strict New Education Guidelines
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Osun State Government has officially banned graduation parties for nursery and kindergarten pupils across public and private schools, citing concerns over the increasing commercialisation of early childhood education and its financial impact on parents.
Why the Ban Was Introduced
According to a circular issued on 19th September 2025 by the Osun State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, M. A. K. Jimoh, the move followed reports that elaborate graduation ceremonies for very young pupils were becoming common practice, allegedly placing unnecessary financial burdens on families while eating into valuable teaching time.
Akahi News gathered that the policy will now restrict graduation ceremonies to only Primary 6 pupils completing primary school and SS3 students graduating from secondary school.
Observers noted that the government’s emphasis appears to be on redirecting focus toward academic milestones rather than social celebrations that, in the words of the ministry, “add little educational value yet impose heavy financial strain on parents.”
Wider Implications and New Regulations
Beyond banning early-year graduation ceremonies, the Osun State Government also introduced fresh textbook regulations for both public and private schools, especially faith-based institutions.
The circular reportedly mandates schools to use only government-approved textbooks for at least three consecutive years, allowing siblings to reuse learning materials. It also bans the controversial practice of inserting workbooks into textbooks — a policy analysts believe aims to cut costs for parents and ensure curriculum consistency across the state.
Schools found violating these guidelines risk fines, withdrawal of approvals, or even outright suspension of their operations, according to the statement.
Broader Context Across Nigeria
Akahi News learnt that Osun is not the first state to implement such measures. Imo State reportedly initiated similar restrictions earlier, with Ekiti State following suit before Osun joined the trend. Education analysts believe this growing wave reflects a national push to reform how early childhood education is managed, balancing cultural celebrations with academic priorities and economic realities.
Reactions and Future Outlook
While some parents and teachers may welcome the ban as a relief from unnecessary expenses, others are reportedly concerned about losing traditions that mark educational transitions for young children.
Analysts believe the long-term success of the policy will depend on enforcement and whether stakeholders genuinely embrace the government’s call to “uphold the integrity and purpose of education.”
For now, the directive takes immediate effect, setting a new precedent in Osun’s education policy landscape.
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