Oyo Government Bans “Sign Out” Celebrations in Schools
Oyo Government Bans “Sign Out” Celebrations in Schools
The Oyo State Government has announced a ban on “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state.
The move follows growing concerns over misconduct, violence, and public disturbances that have increasingly characterised the events, which typically mark the completion of final examinations.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, disclosed this during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with principals of public secondary schools held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
Olayiwola explained that while the state recognises the importance of celebrating academic milestones, it cannot allow activities that compromise discipline, public safety, or the moral fabric of the school system.
“The Ministry has observed with concern that ‘sign out’ celebrations have been abused over the years. Instead of modestly marking the end of their exams, students now engage in practices that promote disorderliness, vandalism, and even violence,” he said.
The Commissioner further reiterated the government’s stance on the existing ban on the use of mobile phones by students in schools. He stressed that the devices not only distract from learning but also expose students to non-educational content and foster negative behaviours such as cyberbullying.
According to him, the state government remains committed to instilling discipline, academic excellence, and moral values among students. He urged school administrators, parents, and guardians to support the enforcement of the new directive.
“The future of our children is too important to be toyed with. We must collectively ensure they learn in an environment that prioritises discipline, respect, and focus,” Olayiwola added.
The announcement has stirred conversations among parents, teachers, and students, with some commending the decision as a step towards curbing social vices, while others argue that alternative, more regulated ways of celebrating should be considered.
