The Imo State Government has cautioned private school owners in the state, warning that they risk penalties, including licence withdrawal, if they continue to hold unauthorised graduation ceremonies.

Through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the government stated that graduation events for pupils in kindergarten, nursery, and junior secondary classes are not permitted under existing education guidelines.

Authorities clarified that only pupils in Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 are allowed to have formal graduation ceremonies, in line with the national education structure.

The government further warned that schools that fail to comply with the directive may face sanctions such as suspension of approval, removal from the list of recognised institutions, or outright closure if found operating illegally.

Officials explained that the policy is intended to reduce unnecessary financial demands placed on parents, who are often required to pay for ceremonies that are not officially recognised at lower educational levels.

They also reiterated the ban on frequent textbook changes by private schools, stating that approved textbooks should remain in use for at least four years to ease costs for families.

Parents and members of the public were encouraged to report schools that violate these rules, as the government pledged strict enforcement of the regulations.

The move, according to the state government, is part of ongoing efforts to regulate school activities, promote discipline in the education system, and protect parents from avoidable financial pressure.