The Niger State Government has barred private schools from organising graduation ceremonies, directing them to replace such events with Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremonies to celebrate students’ academic achievements.
The new directive is part of efforts to standardise end-of-session activities and curb what the government described as the growing culture of extravagant and expensive graduation celebrations in private schools.
The policy was announced through the Niger State Private Schools Board in a statement issued by the Directorate of Information Services, Ministry of Information and Orientation, and signed by Yunusa Ibrahim.
According to the statement, schools are expected to use Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremonies to recognise pupils and students for academic excellence, exemplary behaviour, leadership qualities and other outstanding accomplishments.
The government said the increasing trend of lavish graduation ceremonies has placed unnecessary financial pressure on parents while encouraging unhealthy competition among private schools.
It added that many of the celebrations have strayed from their original educational purpose, with excessive spending and commercial interests taking precedence over the recognition of academic excellence.
According to the government, the new policy is aimed at restoring moderation, promoting discipline and ensuring that end-of-session activities remain focused on learning outcomes and scholastic achievement.
To ensure compliance, the Niger State Private Schools Board, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Orientation and other stakeholders, will embark on statewide sensitisation campaigns to educate schools and members of the public on the directive.
The government also said information officers and community mobilisation personnel would engage school proprietors, parents and local communities to encourage understanding and full implementation of the policy.
Reaffirming its commitment to improving educational standards and protecting the interests of students and parents, the state government stressed that all school activities must conform to approved educational guidelines and best practices.
It also appealed to schools, parents and other stakeholders to support the directive, describing it as a move to promote discipline, uniformity and academic excellence across the State.
