The Oyo State Government has placed an official ban on “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in all public and private schools across the state, citing rising cases of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with the practice.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with secondary school principals at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan. He explained that the ban is part of the state’s effort to maintain discipline, safeguard students, and promote a conducive learning environment.
Olayiwola also reinforced the enforcement of the existing restriction on mobile phone use in schools. He noted that phones distract students from academics, expose them to harmful and non-educational content, and fuel issues such as cyberbullying and misconduct. According to him, strict adherence to this directive will ensure that students focus on learning and character development.
The Commissioner commended school principals for their dedication to molding young people, while urging them to resist the temptation of imposing unauthorized levies or illegal fees that could prevent students from accessing education. He further emphasized punctuality, teacher engagement in classrooms, and the need for violence-free and safe schools across the state.
On curriculum standards, Olayiwola directed schools to recommend only government-approved textbooks that meet official requirements and are reusable, adding that compliance will be closely monitored by the ministry.
In a goodwill message, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, called for continuous dialogue between teachers and authorities to further improve the state’s education system. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, also stressed the importance of diligence and strict adherence to regulations in managing schools.
Education stakeholders at the meeting, including ANCOPSS State President Comrade Akinoye Christopher and NUT Chairman Comrade Raji Oladimeji, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing teachers’ welfare and assured the government of their cooperation for a successful academic year.
