The Ministry of Education has ordered the immediate suspension of all Senior High School (SHS) graduation ceremonies nationwide, citing growing concerns over excessive displays of wealth and flamboyant celebrations.
The directive, issued by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, is expected to remain in force until existing guidelines governing such ceremonies are reviewed.
In a statement released on Saturday, June 20, the Ministry said it had observed increasing public criticism over how some schools conduct graduation ceremonies, with activities shifting away from their intended academic 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 noted.
The Ministry stressed that schools are meant to promote discipline, character formation, and responsible citizenship, adding that graduation ceremonies should reflect modesty and dignity rather than extravagance.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasize that schools are institutions for learning, character development, discipline, and the nurturing of responsible citizens,” it stated.
It further warned against conduct that undermines 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 to suspend all SHS graduation ceremonies nationwide with immediate effect, pending a review of current guidelines.
“The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that all school activities uphold the highest standards of discipline, responsibility, and moral development,” the statement concluded.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Education Service has also banned extravagant post-examination celebrations on school campuses, including the presentation of expensive gifts such as vehicles and money bouquets to students.
In a statement dated June 19, 2026, GES said it had observed a growing trend of lavish celebrations on school premises, which it described as inconsistent with the values of 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,” it said.
It added that while parents are free to celebrate their wards, such activities must not take place on school grounds.
“Schools are designed to promote social equalisers where merit and personal effort take priority over economic status,” the statement emphasized.
GES warned that heads of schools who allow such practices would face sanctions, urging strict compliance to preserve discipline and equality within educational institutions.
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