The Anambra State Government has sanctioned seven private schools for violating its directive prohibiting graduation parties and the collection of related levies from parents.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, announced the sanctions during a meeting with the proprietors of the affected schools, reaffirming the government’s resolve to enforce compliance with its education policies across the state.
Dr. Ogugua directed the schools to refund all money collected from parents for graduation ceremonies within one month and submit verifiable evidence of the refunds to the Ministry of Education. He warned that any school that fails to comply with the directive within the stipulated period would be sealed and shut down.
According to the commissioner, the enforcement is aimed at ending the imposition of unauthorized charges on parents under the guise of graduation celebrations and ensuring that schools operate in line with approved government regulations.
The affected schools are Kings School, Amawbia; Paraiso Montessori School, Awka; Bluepoint School, Awka; Favour Dot Queen Academy, Awka; Little Angel British School, Aguleri; Handmaid Infant Jesus Nursery and Primary School, Awka; and Frobel Height Academy, Awka.
Dr. Ogugua expressed concern over the financial burden compulsory graduation levies place on parents, especially at a time when many families are already struggling with rising education costs. He noted that the government’s policy is intended to protect parents from unnecessary expenses while promoting discipline and accountability within the education sector.
He further cautioned school proprietors and administrators against violating the directive, stating that monitoring teams would continue inspections across education zones to identify and sanction defaulting schools.
The commissioner called on school owners, parents and other stakeholders to support the policy and ensure full compliance, stressing that the government remains committed to maintaining standards and preventing schools from imposing unauthorized financial obligations on parents.
The latest action underscores the Anambra State Government’s determination to enforce its ban on graduation party levies and ensure strict adherence to education policies throughout the state.
