GES Declares War on Extravagant Graduation Parties, Calls Trend ‘Alien Culture’.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reaffirmed its decision to prohibit post-graduation and leavers’ ceremonies in schools until further notice, insisting that the increasingly lavish nature of such events does not align with Ghanaian cultural values and educational principles.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Prof. Ernest Davis, defended the directive, stating that many of the celebrations have evolved beyond their original purpose and have become platforms for excessive displays of wealth, luxury, and social status.

According to Prof. Davis, the trend has seen students and parents spending large sums of money on expensive outfits, luxury vehicles, and elaborate parties, creating unnecessary pressure on families and shifting attention away from the core purpose of education.

He described the phenomenon as an “alien culture” that has gradually found its way into the country’s educational system, arguing that it is inconsistent with the values of modesty, discipline, and academic excellence that schools are expected to promote.

The GES boss stressed that while the Service appreciates the desire of students to celebrate important milestones in their academic journey, such celebrations should not become occasions that encourage unhealthy competition or place financial burdens on parents and guardians.

Prof. Davis further noted that the ban remains in force as authorities continue to assess the impact of the growing trend and explore more appropriate ways for schools to recognize graduating students. He emphasized that educational institutions are expected to comply fully with the directive.

The reaffirmation of the ban has sparked debate among students, parents, and education stakeholders, with some supporting the move as a necessary step to curb extravagance, while others argue that graduation ceremonies provide an opportunity for students to celebrate years of hard work and achievement.

For now, the Ghana Education Service maintains that preserving discipline, equality, and the integrity of the educational environment remains its priority, and that graduation-related activities must reflect those values rather than promote flamboyant displays of wealth.