The Education Ministry has ordered an immediate halt to all Senior High School (SHS) graduation events nationwide after rising worries over what it calls lavish shows of affluence and spectacle at the functions.
In a release issued June 20, 2026, the Ministry stated it had observed mounting public disapproval of the trend toward over-the-top celebrations that now mark graduations at several secondary schools.
The Ministry stressed that schools exist mainly to advance knowledge, order, character formation and the development of accountable citizens.
Therefore, graduation events ought to highlight scholastic success and individual progress instead of turning into stages for excessive show.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasise that schools are institutions for learning, character development, discipline and the nurturing of responsible citizens. Graduation ceremonies are intended to celebrate academic achievement and personal growth and should therefore reflect the values of modesty, dignity and respect associated with the educational environment.”
It also denounced behaviour by learners, parents, guardians, or other parties that encourages wastefulness and shifts focus from the real aim of school graduations.
“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.”
The Ministry added that the pause is meant to make sure graduation events match the fundamental principles of Ghana’s education system and maintain expectations of order and accountability.
