The Kogi State Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector, banning sign-out ceremonies in tertiary institutions as well as graduation ceremonies in primary and secondary schools.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Wemi Jones, disclosed this during a meeting with key stakeholders in the basic and secondary education sector.

He explained that the growing trend of incessant graduation ceremonies in primary and secondary schools has become economically burdensome for parents and is often associated with social vices among children.

According to him, the practice has now been abolished, with schools directed to revert to the traditional annual Speech and Prize-Giving Day.

“Graduation ceremonies will only be permitted after Senior Secondary School (SSS 3) examinations, and only if necessary,” the commissioner said.

On instructional materials, Hon. Jones announced the government’s decision to discontinue the use of textbooks converted into workbooks.

He directed parents to provide exercise books for pupils and students, while textbooks are to be reused by younger siblings.

He stressed that the move is aimed at reducing financial pressure on parents and ensuring effective policy implementation in line with the state’s education law.

The commissioner also cautioned school authorities against flouting the directive, warning that any attempt to undermine the new policy would attract sanctions