The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended Imo State Government for banning lavish graduation parties for young students in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools, saying the ban aligns with its recent campaign against extreme practices in graduation ceremonies.
NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the decision as a timely step towards promoting responsible value reorientation among young learners.
He said the trend of lavish graduation parties fosters unrealistic expectations, encourages extravagance and places undue financial pressure on parents.
The NOA Director-General stressed that the state’s policy allowing graduation ceremonies only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary students aligns with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, ensuring consistency with national education standards.
The NOA boss emphasized that early exposure to such celebrations distorts the values of hard work, humility and delayed gratification, which are essential for personal growth and national development.
He further said that the decision by Imo State Government to stop school proprietors from changing textbooks annually is also seen as a significant step towards reducing the financial burden on families and making education more affordable and accessible.
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Issa-Onilu added that the agency is committed to working with state governments, schools, and parents to promote a culture prioritizing discipline, modesty, and responsible upbringing among children.
The NOA encourages other states to adopt similar policies, noting that such measures foster a more disciplined and value-driven education system.
The agency believes that by emphasizing academic focus over extravagant celebrations, the policy contributes to a healthier educational environment rooted in hard work, resilience, and perseverance.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
