The state Ministry of Education announced a ban on graduation parties for nursery and primary school pupils, a mandatory entrepreneurship training program for junior secondary students, and a textbook reuse policy.

Under the new measures, graduation ceremonies will be limited to students completing Basic Education (Primary 1–JSS 3) and Senior Secondary 3 (SSS 3), with only modest celebrations permitted and prom parties explicitly prohibited. 

The Ministry emphasized that pre-basic and primary school pupils will no longer be allowed to hold graduation ceremonies or parties, aiming to curb excessive celebrations and focus on academic priorities.

To promote sustainability, the textbook reuse policy allows younger siblings to use approved textbooks purchased by their older siblings, with each book remaining in use for at least four years before review. 

This initiative is designed to reduce costs for families while maintaining educational standards.

In a significant move to equip students with practical skills, all JSS 3 students will undergo compulsory entrepreneurship training before graduation. Starting next academic session, every JSS 3 graduate will receive two certificates: the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and a Skills Acquisition Certificate in their chosen trade subject. 

The Ministry stated that these reforms reflect the government’s commitment to producing academically proficient students who are also equipped with entrepreneurial skills to excel in a competitive global landscape.

“The measures are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure Edo students are not only academically sound but also practically skilled to thrive in today’s world,” the Ministry’s statement read. 

The reforms have been hailed as a bold step toward fostering a more focused and skill-oriented education system in Edo State.