The Edo State Government has announced sweeping education reforms aimed at strengthening stability, consistency, and quality learning across schools in the state.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Education, the new policies will take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session and cover textbook usage, graduation ceremonies, and compulsory skills training for junior secondary students.
Textbook Reuse Policy
To reduce costs for parents and ensure uniformity, younger pupils will now be allowed to use approved textbooks previously purchased by their older siblings. Each approved textbook will remain valid for at least four years before review by the Ministry.
Graduation Ceremony Guidelines
Graduation parties will now be restricted to pupils completing Basic Education (Primary 1–JSS 3) and Senior Secondary 3 (SSS 3). Even at these levels, only modest celebrations will be permitted, while prom parties are banned. Nursery, kindergarten, and Primary 6 pupils will no longer hold graduation ceremonies or parties.
Mandatory Entrepreneurship Skills Training for JSS 3 Students
As part of ongoing education reforms, all JSS 3 students must undergo compulsory entrepreneurship training before graduation. Starting from the 2025/2026 session, every student will graduate with two certificates:
- The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)
- A Skills Acquisition Certificate in a chosen trade subject
According to the Ministry, the reforms reflect government’s commitment to raising students who are not only academically sound but also equipped with practical entrepreneurial skills to succeed in today’s economy.
