The Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign-out” celebrations by graduating students across all secondary schools in the state. The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, during a meeting with school principals held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
According to the commissioner, the decision was necessary due to rising cases of unruly behavior, public disturbances, and safety risks linked to the celebrations. He stressed that schools are primarily meant for learning and moral development, not for activities that compromise discipline and endanger lives.
In addition to the ban, the government also reaffirmed its earlier directive prohibiting the use of mobile phones by students within school premises. Officials said the use of phones had contributed to distractions, exposure to harmful content, and in some cases, misconduct among students.
The Ministry further directed that only government-approved textbooks aligned with the school curriculum should be used by both public and private institutions. Principals were also warned against collecting unauthorized fees, as the government continues to push for affordable and accessible education for all children in the state.
Speaking at the meeting, Hon. Olayiwola commended school administrators for their efforts in maintaining order but urged them to intensify discipline and compliance with state policies. Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, appealed to teachers and principals to follow due process when presenting grievances. Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, also reminded school authorities of their duty to uphold accountability and fairness in school management.
With this development, the familiar tradition of “sign-out” among final-year students may disappear from Oyo schools, as the state government insists on prioritizing safety, discipline, and academic focus above celebratory practices.
