Govt Bans PP2 Graduation Ceremonies in Schools

Schools across the country have begun cancelling planned events such as Sports Day and PP2 Graduation Ceremonies.

This follows a directive issued by the Ministry of Education prohibiting social activities during the third term.

One of the schools announced that while the annual Sports Day and formal PP2 Graduation Ceremony would not take place, the institution plans to hold a simple in-house celebration for the graduating PP2 pupils alongside their classmates.

“Due to a strict directive from the Ministry of Education prohibiting schools from holding social events during the third term, we regret to inform you that we will not be able to hold our planned Sports Day and PP2 Graduation Ceremony,” read the statement from the school.

“However, we will celebrate the PP2 Graduation with a simple in-house ceremony for the children, together with their classmates.”

The directive was issued to maintain focus on academic activities and ensure minimal disruption during the crucial term, leading many schools to adjust their calendars and find modest ways to recognize pupils’ achievements.

PP2 Graduation Ceremonies

PP2 (Pre-Primary 2) graduations mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), celebrating the transition of young learners from the Early Years Education (EYE) level to Grade One in primary school.

Held at the end of the academic year, these ceremonies feature colorful performances, songs, poems, and presentations by the children, often attended by parents, teachers, and school administrators.

For many schools and families, PP2 graduations served as both a rite of passage and a moment of pride, recognizing the learners’ growth, confidence, and readiness for formal schooling.

PP2 children wear a graduation gown to mark the transition to grade 2.

Also Read: Body Of PP2 Pupil Discovered Under A Pulpit

Reaction from Kenyan parents

Following the Ministry of Education’s directive prohibiting schools from holding social events during the third term, The Kenya Times sought parents’ views on whether PP2 graduation ceremonies should be cancelled.

Simiyu Centrine- one of the parents who spoke to The Kenya Times- opposed the cancellation, saying, “It shouldn’t be cancelled! It psychologically prepares the pupils for the transition to the next stage. It marks a stage transition, which is a good aspect.”

Also Read: How Students Can Identify Possible Career Pathways in Senior Secondary

On his part, Joseph Munyao argued that the essence of graduation attire has been diluted.

“These days, the graduation attire has lost its glory and respect. Previously, you were encouraged to work hard to join a tertiary institution to have the chance of putting on a gown, but if a PP2 child puts on one, the chances of convincing him or her to aim higher are reduced,” he said.

Daniel Kimilu believes graduation ceremonies should be reserved for institutions of higher learning, stating, “Graduations should be held in colleges and universities.”

For Pauline Gatama, another parent, the milestone worth celebrating should come later in basic education.

 “Actually, the best graduation in primary level should be Grade 9 — from childhood to another maturity life,” she suggested.

The debate continues as parents and educators weigh the cultural, emotional, and educational significance of early childhood graduation ceremonies.

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