The Delta State Government has reiterated its ban on graduation parties and similar end-of-session celebrations in private schools, warning that any institution that violates the directive could face stiff sanctions, including possible closure or suspension of operations.
The renewed warning comes as schools across the State begin preparations for end-of-session activities, with education authorities insisting that elaborate graduation ceremonies and associated levies place unnecessary financial burdens on parents and guardians.
The directive resurfaced through a message circulated among school proprietors and administrators, reportedly from the office of the Commissioner for Secondary Education, stating that “graduation parties or whatever name they are tagged” remain prohibited in Delta State.
A school proprietress in Uvwie Local Government Area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the policy had earlier been communicated to schools by the local Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), dismissing suggestions that the message was fake.
The government’s position aligns with earlier measures introduced to curb what it described as exploitative practices in the education sector.
In September 2025, the then Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, had announced a ban on elaborate graduation ceremonies in private schools, describing the trend as an avoidable financial burden on families.
She had warned that schools imposing graduation levies or organizing extravagant celebrations would face sanctions from the government.
Education authorities have also moved to address other practices considered costly to parents, including frequent changes of textbooks, multiple school uniforms and various additional charges imposed by some private schools.
Officials argued that such practices contribute significantly to rising educational costs and place undue pressure on households already grappling with economic challenges.
Delta joins several other states, including , , , and , which have introduced restrictions on graduation ceremonies, particularly for nursery, kindergarten and junior secondary school pupils.
Stakeholders in the education sector say the policy is aimed at making education more affordable, enforcing standards in schools and shifting focus from expensive social celebrations to academic achievement and learning outcomes.
Although the Delta State Government is yet to issue a fresh public circular on the latest warning, several school administrators have reportedly begun notifying parents and staff of the directive ahead of the end of the academic session.
- * Media Report