Gov’t suspends SHS graduation ceremonies over rising extravagant celebrations

The Ministry of Education has ordered the immediate suspension of all Senior High School (SHS) graduation ceremonies across the country, citing growing concerns over excessive displays of wealth and flamboyant celebrations.

The directive, issued by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, will remain in force pending a comprehensive review of existing guidelines governing such ceremonies.

In a statement released on Saturday, June 20, the Ministry said it had taken note of increasing public criticism regarding the conduct of some graduation events, which it said have strayed from their intended academic and moral purpose.

“The Ministry of Education has taken note of growing public concerns regarding the increasing trend of excessive display of wealth and flamboyance during graduation ceremonies in some Senior High Schools across the country,” the statement said.

According to the Ministry, schools are institutions designed to promote discipline, character development, and responsible citizenship, and not platforms for extravagant displays.

It emphasized that graduation ceremonies should reflect modesty, dignity, and the core values of education rather than materialism and social competition.

“The Ministry wishes to emphasize that schools are institutions for learning, character development, discipline, and the nurturing of responsible citizens,” it stated.

The Ministry further condemned practices by students, parents, and other stakeholders that undermine the purpose of such events.

“The Ministry strongly condemns any conduct by students, parents, guardians, or other stakeholders that promotes extravagance and detracts from the true purpose of school ceremonies,” it added.

As part of the directive, the Minister has instructed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to enforce the immediate suspension of all SHS graduation ceremonies nationwide until revised guidelines are introduced.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Education Service has also placed a ban on extravagant post-examination celebrations held on school premises. These include the presentation of expensive gifts such as cars, cash packages, and elaborate displays to graduating students.

In a separate statement dated June 19, 2026, the GES said it had observed a troubling rise in lavish celebrations on school campuses, describing the trend as inconsistent with the principles of equity and discipline in education.

“Management has observed with concern an emerging trend of parents and guardians engaging in flamboyant celebration of their children’s completion of Senior High School,” the statement noted.

While acknowledging the right of parents to celebrate their children’s achievements, the GES stressed that such activities must not take place within school environments.

“Schools are designed to promote social equalisers where merit and personal effort take priority over economic status,” it emphasized.

The Service warned that heads of schools who fail to comply with the directive would face sanctions, urging strict adherence to preserve discipline and fairness within the educational system.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all school-related activities uphold the highest standards of responsibility, discipline, and moral development.