The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has applauded the Imo State Government’s prohibition of extravagant graduation ceremonies for nursery, primary, and junior secondary school pupils, calling it a crucial step toward instilling discipline and responsible values in young learners.
NOA Director General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu stated that such celebrations promote unrealistic expectations of instant gratification and place unnecessary financial strain on parents.
Issa-Onilu noted that early exposure to lavish events undermines essential values like hard work, humility, and delayed gratification, which are vital for personal and national development.
He affirmed NOA’s commitment to collaborating with state governments, schools, and parents to foster a culture of modesty and discipline among children. The agency recently launched a campaign against excessive “sign-out” practices in schools, and Imo’s policy aligns with this initiative.
The NOA DG also commended the state’s directive preventing schools from frequently changing textbooks, which reduces financial pressure on families and enhances education affordability.
He emphasised that Imo’s restriction of graduation ceremonies to Primary 6 and Senior Secondary students aligns with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, ensuring consistency with national standards.
Issa-Onilu urged other states to adopt similar measures, stating that such policies promote a more disciplined and value-driven academic environment. By prioritising learning over unnecessary celebrations, schools can better focus on nurturing resilient and hardworking students.
The NOA reaffirmed its support for initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s education system while discouraging practices that encourage wastefulness and misplaced priorities among young learners.
Also Read:
INEC today begins nationwide online voter registration ahead of 2025 elections
Lagos State Govt launches new registration for vulnerable households in welfare expansion
Court orders National Assembly to release documents on N37bn renovation
cc: TVC News
