Founder and Leader of the Union Government, Akwasi Addae Odike has called on the Ghana Education Service (GES) to scrap graduation ceremonies in schools from kindergarten through senior high school.
He argued that such ceremonies are a waste of time and money, adding that they impose unnecessary financial burdens on parents and distract students from focusing on their studies.
Speaking on Angel FM’s ‘Anɔpa Bɔfoɔ’ on Monday, June 22, 2026, Mr. Odike described such ceremonies in both public and private schools as unnecessary, arguing that they place an undue financial burden on parents and guardians.
According to him, many parents are compelled to spend money on gifts and other items for their wards during graduation events, creating avoidable expenses.
He further claimed that some students become distracted by social activities, including romantic relationships, after completing their WASSCE examinations.
Citing his experience as a former secondary school student, Mr. Odike noted that graduation ceremonies were not part of the school system in his time. He said students remained focused on their academic work without the distraction of elaborate celebrations or visitors.
Mr. Odike stressed that education should prioritize academic excellence and character development rather than social festivities.
He further urged the Ghana Education Service to seriously consider scrapping graduation ceremonies at all levels of pre-tertiary education.
He maintained that such events divert attention from the primary purpose of schooling and place unnecessary pressure on families.
Source: Collins Kofi Asante
