Moi University has become the latest institution in Kenya to introduce stringent dress code, banning items such as micro mini skirts, skin-tight trousers, ripped jeans, cropped tops, low-cut attire, micro shorts, transparent dresses, and clothing revealing bra straps.
The decision sparked controversy on social media, with some students expressing opposition, asserting their right to dress freely, while others supporting the move, citing the need for decency and respect in the academic environment.
Moi University is not the only institution to enforce such regulations. The University of Eldoret (UoE) and Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) also issued similar guidelines joining a number of institutions including Strathmore University, Zetech University and Kabarak University, in prohibiting cross-dressing, dreadlocks, plaited hair, earrings, and tops exposing one's navel and skirts above the knee.
These measures are said to be motivated by concerns over the indecent style of dressing, predominantly among female students, and the discomfort it causes to students, lecturers and other staff members.
The question arising is whether other institutions of higher learning in Kenya, and in our case, Chuka University should follow suit and adopt a strict dress code for its students. Should the institution follow suit in banning ‘indecent dressing’ among its students?
Chuka University is guided by a Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy that outlines the expected behavior and attire of its staff and students. The policy states that “staff and students shall dress decently and appropriately at all times while on duty or in the University premises” and that “the University reserves the right to determine what constitutes decent and appropriate dressing”.
However, the policy does not provide any specific guidelines or examples of what is considered ‘decent’ or ‘appropriate’ dressing, leaving room for interpretation and discretion.
Dons at Chuka University have expressed their discomfort and frustration with the way some students dress, especially female students during classes. They claim that some students wear clothes that are too revealing, tight, or provocative, which distracts them and other students from teaching and learning.
Some have even made statements in lecture halls, claiming that such dressing reflects poorly on the university’s image and reputation, and that it goes against the African culture and values. They have however only gone as far as asking the students to question their conscience when dressing and mind other people around them.
Having sparked great debate, some students at Chuka University have opposed the idea of imposing stricter dress code rules, terming it as unfair, unnecessary, and irrelevant. They argue that they have the right to dress as they please, as long as they are comfortable and confident. They also insist that their dressing has nothing to do with their academic performance or their moral character, and that it is not the university’s role to dictate their personal style or preferences.
"As much as everyone has a right to dress freely, there should be a limit to it. Don't wear extremely short skirts or shorts to class, or show up with crocs and slippers. Some people have funny toes and I find myself laughing instead of concentrating in class." argues Purity, a first-year student. "It will not be okay to get people budgeting for new clothes immediately, it should be a process" she adds.
As for Mugambi, a 3rd year student, Universities should not create a huge fuss out of dressing,
"Dressing elegantly doesn't necessarily require a three-piece suit; it's about consciously dressing for intention and environment. Some regulations are unnecessary because the subjects need to utilize their intuitive cognitive for modest appearance." he says.
Mwende, also a 3rd year, thinks dressing should be more of a conscience rather than regulations, "Remember we are supposed to acknowledge validity of both arguments. In my opinion students have the right to express themselves through their clothing choices within reasonable limits”, she argues.
The debate over student dress codes is not unique to Chuka University or Kenya. It is a global issue that has been discussed and contested for decades, with various perspectives and arguments on both sides. There is no clear-cut answer or solution to this issue, as different schools, cultures, and contexts may have different needs and preferences.
The Writer, Peter A. Bishop is a Third Year Journalism and Mass Communication Student at Chuka University. The Campus Review is a Publication of Chuka University Journalism Club (CUJOC)
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