The Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state.

The decision follows increasing reports of misconduct, violence, vandalism, and public disturbances linked to such events, which typically involve processions, writing on uniforms, and loud gatherings.

Announcing the ban, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, said the directive was aimed at promoting student safety, discipline, and a conducive learning environment. He spoke during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with secondary school principals at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, on Friday.

In a statement issued through the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, Olayiwola stressed that the state would also enforce the existing prohibition on mobile phone usage by students in schools, warning that such devices often serve as distractions and enablers of cyberbullying and misconduct.

“Schools must remain free of violence, bullying, and intimidation to protect adolescents during their formative years. The government is using this period to officially ban ‘sign out’ celebrations by final-year students in all schools across the state,” he said.

He further directed principals to recommend only government-approved textbooks, noting that compliance would be closely monitored by the ministry.

The commissioner also cautioned against unauthorised levies or illegal fees, insisting that no student should be denied access to education on financial grounds. He urged teachers and principals to maintain punctuality, diligence, and commitment to student welfare.

The Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Olubukola Oladipupo, encouraged school heads to seek clarification before filing petitions, while reaffirming her openness to constructive dialogue for educational improvement.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Bamidele Oyinloye, emphasised diligence and adherence to regulations in school management.

Representatives of education stakeholders, including the state President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Akinoye Christopher, and the state Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, Raji Oladimeji, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritising the welfare of teachers and pledged support for a successful academic year.