There have been varied reactions throughout the country following the directive by the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, who has instructed the leadership and management of various secondary educational institutions to enforce discipline among students. This includes ensuring that students keep their hair short and neat, prohibiting any form of long hair.
In reaction to this directive, the Member of Parliament for Dormaa Central, Hon. John Kwame Adu Jack, underscored the significance of strict adherence to the rules and regulations established by academic institutions.
He expressed strong support for the bold stance taken by the Minister of Education, emphasizing that such adherence is a vital step toward cultivating a sense of discipline among students in secondary schools.
He acknowledged the ongoing controversy surrounding students’ hairstyles, noting that life encompasses both Nature and Nurture aspects. The secondary institutions are employing the Nurture aspect to shape students for a disciplined future. He stressed the importance of upholding the Minister’s directives to effectively instill discipline in schools.
Rev. Father Kingsley Dwamena Asante, the Dormaa Central Municipal Director of Education, emphasized the comprehensive nature of education, which involves nurturing students in all aspects of their lives. He highlighted that Ghana possesses a distinctive cultural heritage that must be preserved to prevent it from being influenced by Western lifestyles.
He noted that the regulation regarding haircuts in Ghana has long been a part of school rules and regulations. Thus, any changes to these rules should result from extensive consultations. Until such consultations occur, the existing regulations concerning student hairstyles in various secondary institutions should remain in place to maintain discipline among students.
He argued that permitting students, particularly females, to maintain long hair in school could result in irresponsible behavior stemming from peer group influence. This influence may subsequently lead to dating and eventually teenage pregnancy, as students might seek financial assistance to style their hair attractively like their peers. Should their families be unable to provide such support, they might resort to engaging in sexual relationships with boys to obtain financial aid.
He stressed the importance of maintaining uniformity within Senior High Schools by ensuring no discrimination occurs in terms of attire, hairstyles, and other aspects, which might adversely affect the learning abilities of those who are disadvantaged due to poverty.
Story By: Kwaku Mensah Abrampa (Dormaa Ahenkro)
