Students should not be told to dress well
Jun 24, 2008
A trend is emerging in universities, where a dress code is being enforced, particularly among female students. The latest case is of Makerere University, where a dress code policy was passed, banning mini-skirts and tight outfits.
EDITOR'S COMMENT
A trend is emerging in universities, where a dress code is being enforced, particularly among female students. The latest case is of Makerere University, where a dress code policy was passed, banning mini-skirts and tight outfits.
Uganda Christian University, too, banned what they called ‘indecent’ outfits, including mini-skirts, long slits, baggy trousers and tight dresses.
Aside from these, faith-based institutions like the Islamic University in Uganda have rules about dress code. This may be as it is, but must adult, university students be told how to dress?
The assumption being that by the time someone reaches tertiary level, they are mature, they should be able to consider the implications of how they dress. While activists must cry out about rights and harassment, we must also remember that girls will be girls. A young woman will be appealing and/or attractive, regardless of how she dresses.
She may not tempt you with her mini-skirt and instead use her voice, eyes or other overt means. What must be done is for activists, university administrations and guild leaders to teach students (and errant lecturers) good manners.
Teach them the basics of decency, then leave them to act accordingly. Besides, punish lecturers who take advantage of their female students.
A trend is emerging in universities, where a dress code is being enforced, particularly among female students. The latest case is of Makerere University, where a dress code policy was passed, banning mini-skirts and tight outfits.
Uganda Christian University, too, banned what they called ‘indecent’ outfits, including mini-skirts, long slits, baggy trousers and tight dresses.
Aside from these, faith-based institutions like the Islamic University in Uganda have rules about dress code. This may be as it is, but must adult, university students be told how to dress?
The assumption being that by the time someone reaches tertiary level, they are mature, they should be able to consider the implications of how they dress. While activists must cry out about rights and harassment, we must also remember that girls will be girls. A young woman will be appealing and/or attractive, regardless of how she dresses.
She may not tempt you with her mini-skirt and instead use her voice, eyes or other overt means. What must be done is for activists, university administrations and guild leaders to teach students (and errant lecturers) good manners.
Teach them the basics of decency, then leave them to act accordingly. Besides, punish lecturers who take advantage of their female students.