The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its ban on the collection of graduation levies and fees for pupils and students in non-terminal classes across public and private schools in the state.
In a press release issued through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the government clarified that graduation ceremonies are officially recognized only for Primary Six and Senior Secondary School Three (SS3), being the terminal classes in the Basic and Senior Secondary Education system.
According to the statement, any graduation ceremony organized for non-terminal classes that requires compulsory payment from parents or guardians is not approved by the government and must ‘cease immediately’.
The Ministry disclosed that it has received reports indicating that some schools are still collecting unauthorized graduation fees from pupils and students in non-terminal classes, despite the existing directive.
To ensure strict compliance, the Abia State Government has directed the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to commence immediate monitoring and enforcement across all public and private schools. It warned that any school found violating the directive would face sanctions in accordance with the law.
The government also called on parents, guardians, school proprietors, and other stakeholders to comply fully with the policy in the interest of maintaining standards within the education sector.
Members of the public were further encouraged to report cases of non-compliance to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education through 08142978338 for prompt investigation and appropriate action.
