Oyo government bans ‘Sign-Out’ celebrations in schools, reiterates phone prohibition
The Oyo State Government has banned “sign-out” celebrations by final-year students in all public and private schools, citing growing concerns over misconduct, violence, and public disorder associated with the events.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Olusegun Olayiwola, announced the decision during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with principals of public secondary schools at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
Olayiwola also reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on students’ use of mobile phones within school premises, stressing that the devices serve as distractions, promote access to inappropriate content, and enable cyberbullying.
He commended principals for their commitment to student development but warned against imposing unauthorised levies or illegal fees, insisting that no child should be denied education due to financial constraints.
The commissioner further emphasised the importance of punctuality and active staff participation in teaching, while urging schools to prioritise student safety and maintain an environment free from violence, bullying, and intimidation.
In addition, principals were directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks aligned with the national curriculum, with Olayiwola warning that strict compliance with all guidelines would be closely monitored by the ministry.
