By Fatou Krubally
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has banned graduation ceremonies for early and lower basic schools, citing concerns over the financial burden such events place on parents and guardians.
In a statement issued on 31 March, the ministry said the measure is aimed at reinforcing its long-standing “No Levy” policy, which discourages schools from imposing additional costs on families.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, applies to both public and private schools nationwide.
Under the new guidelines, Early Childhood Development (ECD), nursery and lower basic schools are no longer permitted to organize graduation ceremonies. Upper basic and senior secondary schools will, however, be allowed to hold modest Speech and Prize Giving Ceremonies to mark the end of the academic year.
The Ministry said such events must be conducted in a cost-effective manner, with students required to attend in their regular school uniforms. The use of graduation gowns or other formal attire has been prohibited.
Schools have also been directed to hold ceremonies within their premises to avoid expenses associated with hiring external venues.
The directive further bans after-ceremony parties and social gatherings organized by schools, warning against compelling students to participate in such activities.
According to the Ministry, the measures are intended to promote inclusivity and ensure that no student is excluded from school celebrations due to financial constraints.
It stressed that recognizing academic achievement should not come at the expense of parents already facing economic challenges.
MoBSE has urged school authorities across the country to comply fully with the directive, emphasizing that school celebrations must remain simple, dignified and accessible to all.