Imo State Government Announces Major Education Reforms
The Imo State Government has rolled out sweeping reforms in the education sector, abolishing graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) students. The new policy also mandates schools to stop the yearly change of textbooks.
The reforms were contained in a memo dated August 15, 2025, signed by the Commissioner for Education, Professor Bernard Ikegwuoha, with reference number MOEPS/COMMR/2025/VOL. 1/155.
The document, titled “Policy on Education for Public and Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Imo State”, was addressed to parents, guardians, and stakeholders.
Graduation Ceremonies Restricted to Primary 6 and SSS3
Under the new directive, graduation ceremonies and parties are now restricted to only:
Pupils completing Primary 6
Students completing Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3)
This aligns with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, which emphasizes transition points at the end of primary and secondary education cycles.
“This policy aims to ensure that students, parents, guardians, and schools focus on the academic achievements of students at the end of their primary and secondary education cycles,” the Commissioner stated.
Textbook Policy: Four-Year Lifespan Introduced
Another key aspect of the reform targets what the ministry described as the exploitative practice of schools introducing new textbooks annually.
Professor Ikegwuoha directed that:
Textbooks must now have a minimum lifespan of four years.
Siblings should be able to reuse textbooks.
Schools must adhere strictly to the approved list of textbooks.
The Commissioner warned proprietors of faith-based and private schools against unnecessary textbook changes, stressing that stability in curriculum materials would enhance learning outcomes.
“Proprietors are warned to desist from frequent change of textbooks every academic year, as this practice can be financially burdening for parents and undermine the quality of education,” the memo read.
Cost-Effective and Standardized Learning
According to the ministry, adopting approved textbooks for a stipulated period will not only reduce the financial burden on families but also ensure uniformity in teaching and learning across schools in Imo State.
“By adopting the approved textbooks and allowing them to be used for the specific period, schools can promote a more efficient and effective learning environment,” the memo stated.
The new education policy takes effect immediately.
