DSUST Reaffirms Ban on Final Year Sign-Out on Clothing: Sanctions Apply

Delta State University of Science and Technology (DSUST) has reiterated its ban on the popular final year tradition of students signing on each other's clothing as a graduation celebration. The university warns that violators will face disciplinary action.

The Banned Practice

Many Nigerian universities have a tradition where final year students celebrate completing their exams by signing on each other's shirts, trousers, or other clothing items. DSUST has banned this practice entirely.

University's Position

DSUST management has reaffirmed that the "punishment spelt out for any offender is still very much in force."

This means:

• The ban is not new - it's an existing rule being re-emphasized
• Penalties for violation are already established
• The university is actively enforcing this policy
• All graduating students are expected to comply

Consequences of Violation

Students caught signing on peers' clothing will face:

• Appearance before a disciplinary panel: Formal hearing on the violation
• Appropriate sanctions: Penalties as determined by university regulations
• Potential impact on graduation or final results

When This Rule Applies

The university emphasized that students should familiarize themselves with this rule before completing their final examinations.

This timing is important because:

• The sign-out tradition typically happens immediately after final exams
• Students must know the rule in advance to avoid violations
• Ignorance of the policy is not an acceptable defense

Why Universities Ban This Practice

While DSUST's specific reasons weren't detailed, universities typically ban clothing sign-outs due to:

• Vandalism concerns: Damage to personal property
• Inappropriate content: Some signatures include offensive messages
• Public image: Signed clothing seen as unprofessional
• Safety issues: Large gatherings can become unruly
• Academic focus: Emphasis should remain on academic achievement

Alternative Celebration Ideas

DSUST final year students can celebrate completion in other ways:

Approved Celebrations

• Organized farewell events: Formal dinners or parties
• Group photos: Professional photography sessions
• Class yearbooks: Collect signatures in designated books
• Social gatherings: Celebrate off-campus within regulations
• Community service: Give back before graduation

Signature Alternatives

If you want peers' signatures as keepsakes:

• Use a dedicated yearbook or memory book
• Create a class banner for signatures
• Design a custom item specifically for signing (not worn clothing)
• Collect signatures digitally in a shared document

Message to Final Year Students

As you approach the end of your DSUST journey:

• Respect university regulations: You've come too far to face sanctions now
• Find alternative celebrations: Mark your achievement in approved ways
• Focus on graduation: Don't let rule violations derail your success
• Be role models: Demonstrate maturity as you transition to alumni status

What Parents and Guardians Should Know

If you have a final year student at DSUST:

• Discuss this policy with your ward
• Encourage compliance with university rules
• Suggest appropriate celebration alternatives
• Remind them that graduation is the ultimate goal

Important Reminders

• This is an existing, enforced policy - not a new announcement
• Penalties for violation are already established and will be applied
• Appearing before the disciplinary panel could affect your graduation
• All final year students are expected to know and follow this rule
• Focus on completing your degree successfully rather than risky celebrations

Final Advice

You've worked hard for years to reach this milestone. Don't let a banned tradition jeopardize your graduation. Celebrate your achievement in ways that honor both your success and DSUST's regulations.

Congratulations on nearing the completion of your degree, and best wishes for a successful graduation!