Pupils sign, tear shirts after final exams

As Eswatini pupils completed their final exams this month, a growing number of students marked the occasion by autographing or tearing their school shirts.

The practice, observed across various schools, involves students signing shirts with permanent markers or writing messages to commemorate their years in school. Some learners also cut or tear their shirts, turning them into keepsakes.

Teachers and parents have expressed mixed reactions to the trend. Some view it as a harmless way for students to preserve memories of their school years.

Others have suggested that shirts, often still in good condition, could be donated to younger learners instead of being defaced.

Speaking on the matter, SNAT (Swaziland National Association of Teachers) posted on their Facebook page, which has over 80,000 followers that there were of mixed views about the matter.

“Not to say we are bitter, controlling or antiquated. As parents and educators, we should engage our children and learners (who are under the guise that they are done with school) in responsible living habits. Reckless living may have far-reaching repercussions.

We should teach our children to practice selflessness, being human, empathy, philanthropy, contributing positively to the community etc. Nonetheless, Angeke sitsi siyanilawula. But we have a responsibility to impart what is called social etiquette,” reads the post on their social media.

The post was met with a number of mixed reactions and responses from parents. Some echoed SNAT’s sentiments sharing it was irresponsible for the children to do this, citing there were other children who were in need of the shirt.

“Life is funny, next year they will need that shirt, I do not understand why they cannot just give it to the ones in need of the shirt,” commented one parent.

“It’s a once off thing, it’s one shirt let the kids make memories as they leave their high school years,” commented another parent.

Worth mentioning the practice has parallels in other Southern African countries. In South Africa, for instance, matric learners often have their shirts or jackets signed by friends, classmates, and teachers during farewell events.

Some schools allow students to donate or preserve these items as part of school memorabilia programs.

Several learners shared their thoughts on the tradition. Thabiso Dlamini, a graduating pupil from Hhohho, said, Signing shirts is a way to remember friends and teachers.

“When I look at all the messages later, I’ll remember the laughs and the support over the years,” Sibongile Mthethwa, another final-year pupil

“I tore my shirt a little after everyone signed it. It feels like a rite of passage a small way to mark that this chapter is ending,” said another pupil.

Others expressed more practical views, suggesting that shirts could be donated.

Lerato Nkambule said, she wanted to sign her shirt but also planned to give it to someone who needed it.

“It can be both a memory and a way to help someone else,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, commented on the matter and said pupils should consider giving back.

“Signing shirts is a way for students to celebrate their years in school and share memories with their classmates. We encourage learners to also consider giving back, such as donating shirts that can still be used, while enjoying this important milestone in their education journey,” said Nxumalo.

School authorities reported that the tradition has grown steadily over recent years. Teachers said students often carry markers to classrooms on the last day of school, and messages can range from names and doodles to personal notes and inside jokes.

Parents and guardians attending farewell events noted the excitement and energy among pupils, describing the ritual as a memorable part of completing final exams.

Some parents, however, have requested guidance from schools on how to balance celebration with sustainability, particularly regarding the donation of shirts.

Meanwhile, Social welfare organisations on social media have also weighed in, emphasising awareness about resource use and community contribution, aligning with SNAT’s call for imparting social etiquette and responsible habits.