The Kwara State Government has directed all public and private schools across the state to suspend the organisation of graduation ceremonies, valedictory services and other similar end-of-session events.
The directive was conveyed in a letter issued by the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development and signed by Mrs. Bunmi Osanupin, a director in the ministry, on behalf of the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe.
The letter was addressed to the Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Raheem Adaramaja, and was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Ilorin.
According to the ministry, the decision was taken in response to prevailing security concerns and the need to maintain safety, order and decorum within educational institutions across the state.
The government directed all school proprietors, principals, headteachers and administrators to comply fully with the instruction and ensure that no graduation, valedictory or related ceremonies are organised for students.
The letter stressed that the directive applies to both public and private schools operating within Kwara State.
It further warned that any school found violating the order would face appropriate sanctions in line with existing educational regulations and government policies.
The ministry emphasized that school authorities are expected to prioritise the safety and welfare of students, staff and parents by adhering strictly to the directive.
“Any school found to be in violation of this directive shall be liable to appropriate sanctions in accordance with existing regulations,” the letter stated.
The government advised all stakeholders in the education sector to take note of the directive and ensure immediate compliance.
The decision comes amid growing concerns about security across parts of the country, with authorities taking precautionary measures to prevent situations that could expose students and school communities to potential risks.
No indication was given on whether alternative arrangements would be made for graduating students or if the restriction would be reviewed in the future.
School administrators and proprietors have been urged to cooperate with the government in implementing the directive while maintaining a conducive learning environment for students.
The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring that educational activities continue in a secure and orderly manner across all schools in Kwara State.
