society
Gbolahan Adetayo Pens Explosive Open Letter to Ministry of Education Over Kindergarten ‘Graduations’
Gbolahan Adetayo Pens Explosive Open Letter to Ministry of Education Over Kindergarten ‘Graduations’
In an emotionally charged and eye-opening appeal, renowned Nigerian journalist, actor, and filmmaker, Gbolahan Adetayo, has issued a public call to the Federal Ministry of Education and State Ministries of Education across Nigeria, urging them to urgently review and regulate the now-commercialized culture of graduation ceremonies in schools, particularly in nursery and primary institutions.
Reflecting on the good old days of the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, Adetayo lamented the rapid shift from meaningful school send-offs to what he described as exploitative and unnecessary class-to-class graduations. According to him, graduation ceremonies were once reserved for Primary 6 pupils, SS3 students, and university graduates, a tradition that carried deep meaning and pride for both students and parents.
“In those days, graduations were about legacy, celebration of hard work, and a mark of academic progress. Parents were proud, schools organized modest but memorable ceremonies, and children were truly moving to another academic phase,” he wrote.
However, the current trend, Adetayo said, has turned graduations into an annual fundraising scheme by many private—and now even public—schools. He decried the disturbing development where children in Kindergarten 1 are being made to ‘graduate’ to Kindergarten 2 with ceremonies that demand heavy levies for gowns, decoration, food, entertainment, photo sessions, and more.
“This culture is not just ridiculous, it’s wicked. Parents are forced to pay for graduation parties every year, from crèche to the university. This cycle has driven many into debts, unnecessary stress, and in some tragic cases, pushed struggling single mothers into prostitution just to meet up with societal pressure,” he wrote.
Adetayo noted that what was once a beautiful celebration of achievement has now become a burden, with parents expected to throw parties, buy expensive outfits, and contribute to flamboyant events, only to resume in two weeks to pay for the next school term.
He emphasized that the current economic realities in Nigeria do not support such luxuries, especially when millions of families are struggling to survive.
“The Ministry of Education must rise to the occasion. This trend must stop. Let’s return to when graduation was a big deal, not a financial trap. I am calling on relevant authorities to make it mandatory that only Primary 6, SS3, and final-year University students should hold graduation ceremonies. Of course, I won’t go into the spiritual implications of this act for now, as it is a deep topic on its own, one that requires ample time to properly explain to many parents.”
He added that allowing every class to “graduate” diminishes the significance of true academic progress and sends the wrong message to children about the value of hard work and milestones.
Gbolahan Adetayo’s heartfelt message serves as a wake-up call to policymakers, education stakeholders, and school owners to stop commercializing education at the expense of innocent families.
He concluded with a final word to the Ministry:
“This is no longer just a school issue, it is a national concern. Our education system should uplift, not drain. I urge you to act now before this cultural cancer spreads beyond repair.”
Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps
Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.
Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:
“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”
This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.
society
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.
According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.
“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”
Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.
By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.
For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.
As one youth participant reflected:
“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”
The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.
-
society5 months agoRamadan Relief: Matawalle Distributes Over ₦1 Billion to Support 2.5 Million Zamfara Residents
-
Politics2 months agoNigeria Is Not His Estate: Wike’s 2,000‑Hectare Scandal Must Shake Us Awake
-
society4 months agoBroken Promises and Broken Backs: The ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Law and the Betrayal of Nigerian Workers
-
society3 months agoOGUN INVESTS OVER ₦2.25 BILLION TO BOOST AQUACULTURE