A lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Dr. Ovunda Ihunwo, has cautioned parents and guardians against blindly celebrating their children’s “sign-out” jamborees, describing the growing trend as a “deceptive culture” that often masks students’ true academic standing.
In many Nigerian universities, “sign-out” ceremonies—originally a modest tradition to mark the end of final examinations—have now evolved into elaborate social events. Students often don customized T-shirts, spray money, host parties with loud music, and sometimes involve their parents in the festivities.
However, Dr. Ihunwo warned that not all students who participate in these celebrations have genuinely fulfilled their graduation requirements.
“Parents must be vigilant. Some of the students you see signing out have not even been cleared academically,” he said. “They are deceiving themselves, their parents, and the public.”
He explained that peer influence, social pressure, and the pursuit of social media clout have fueled the rise of extravagant sign-out jamborees. In many cases, students still battling carryovers, outstanding fees, or other academic hurdles join in, creating a false impression of success.
According to Dr. Ihunwo, this culture not only misleads families but also exposes parents to embarrassment when they later discover that their children are not yet eligible to graduate.
Observers note that what once began as a simple farewell gesture among classmates has morphed into a costly social trend, with parents often funding the celebrations without verifying their children’s actual academic status.
Dr. Ihunwo urged parents to always demand confirmation of academic clearance before sponsoring such events. He also encouraged students to prioritize completing their studies with integrity over indulging in fleeting displays of celebration.
“Graduation is a milestone that must be backed by proof of academic achievement, not just customized shirts and noise,” he emphasized.
His comments have stirred debate on campus and social media. While some students agree that the trend has become excessive, others argue that the ceremonies remain an important rite of passage regardless of academic standing.
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