NOA hails Imo’s ban on lavish graduation parties for young pupils

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended the Imo State Government for banning extravagant graduation parties for pupils in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools.

The agency described the move as a timely step toward curbing excesses and promoting responsible value reorientation among young learners.

Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the practice of lavish graduation parties fosters unrealistic expectations of instant rewards, encourages a culture of extravagance, and places undue financial pressure on parents who are compelled to fund what he called a wasteful and socially unproductive trend.

He stressed that exposing children to such celebrations at an early age distorts the values of hard work, humility, and delayed gratification, which are crucial for personal growth and national development.

Issa-Onilu noted that the agency remains committed to working with state governments, schools, and parents to promote a culture of discipline, modesty, and responsible upbringing among children. He recalled that the NOA recently launched a campaign against extreme “sign-out” practices, adding that Imo State’s directive aligns with the objectives of that campaign.

The NOA boss also lauded the state’s directive stopping school proprietors from changing textbooks annually, noting that the policy would reduce the financial burden on families and make education more affordable and accessible.

He explained that limiting graduation ceremonies to Primary 6 and Senior Secondary students is in line with the 6-3-3-4 education system and ensures consistency with national education standards.

Issa-Onilu urged other states to adopt similar measures, stressing that such policies foster a more disciplined and value-driven education system rooted in hard work, resilience, and perseverance.