Kaduna, Kogi ban graduation, signing-out ceremonies in schools

The Kaduna and Kogi state governments have banned graduation ceremonies for every class level and the unruly “sign-out” culture in schools, citing financial strain on parents and rising social misconduct. In a public notice, the Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) said only pupils completing JSS3 and SS3 will be allowed to hold graduation […]

Kaduna, Kogi ban graduation, signing-out ceremonies in schools

The Kaduna and Kogi state governments have banned graduation ceremonies for every class level and the unruly “sign-out” culture in schools, citing financial strain on parents and rising social misconduct.

In a public notice, the Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) said only pupils completing JSS3 and SS3 will be allowed to hold graduation ceremonies. 

Director-General Professor Usman Abubakar Zaria noted that some schools compel parents to fund lavish events, undermining government efforts to make education affordable.

Schools were also cautioned against the rowdy “sign-out” practices and instead urged to adopt supervised alternatives like farewell assemblies, talent shows, or mentorship sessions.

In Lokoja, Kogi’s Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, also announced an immediate ban on graduation and signing-out ceremonies across basic, secondary, and tertiary schools. 

He said the practice has become economically unsustainable and promotes social vices, stressing that the government seeks more meaningful ways to celebrate students’ achievements.