Abia State Government Reiterates Ban on Graduation Fees for Non Terminal Classes

The Abia State Government has restated its ban on the collection of graduation levies or fees for pupils and students in non terminal classes across public and private schools in the state.

In a statement issued through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the government said graduation ceremonies are recognised only for pupils in Primary 6 and students in Senior Secondary School Three (SS3), as they are the terminal classes in the basic and senior secondary education cycles.

The ministry said any graduation ceremony organised for non terminal classes that requires compulsory payment is not approved and must stop immediately.

According to the government, no public or private school is permitted to collect graduation levies or graduation fees from pupils or students in any class other than Primary 6 and SS3.

The ministry disclosed that it has received reports that some public and private schools across the state are still imposing unauthorised graduation fees on pupils and students in non terminal classes.

It stated that the Abia State Government has directed the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to begin immediate monitoring and enforcement of the directive in all schools across the state.

The ministry warned that any public or private school found violating the directive will be sanctioned in accordance with the law.

Parents, guardians, school proprietors and other stakeholders were advised to comply strictly with the directive.

The ministry also urged members of the public to report cases of non compliance through 08142978338 for prompt investigation and appropriate action.