By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has moved to abolish the long-standing tradition of “sign-out” celebrations by graduating students, saying the practice has become disruptive and poses risks to order and security on campus.
In a circular signed by the Registrar, Mr. Ademola Bobola, the institution said the widely popular ritual of signing T-shirts, playing loud music, and parading in vehicles after final examinations will no longer be tolerated.
According to the management, the decision was reached to preserve decorum and ensure a safe academic environment. “No sign-out celebration of any kind will be allowed on campus,” the circular stated, stressing that any violation would attract sanctions ranging from rustication to withdrawal of certificates.
The ban also extends to large student gatherings around faculties and institutes, as well as the setting up of photo stands or galleries by photographers. Parents and guardians were equally advised to stay away from the campus during the last week of examinations.
For years, sign-out celebrations have been seen by students as a symbolic rite of passage marking the completion of their academic journey. However, UNIBEN authorities argue that the celebrations often degenerate into rowdiness, obstruction of movement, and security challenges.
By attaching stiff penalties such as certificate withdrawal and expulsion, the university is sending a clear message of zero tolerance, effectively putting an end to a practice that many students considered part of their final-year experience.