By Sue-Ann Wayow
HAIR LOCS, twists, plaits, afros, cornrows, hair extensions, weaves and braids are now all allowed in schools.
The Ministry of Education announced the Introduction of the National School Hair Code on Thursday via media release.
The code comes into effect with the start of the 2023/2024 new school year in September.
The introduction of the hair code comes after 23 pupils of Trinity College, Moka were not permitted to cross the graduation stage because of their hairstyles.
The ministry said it has taken note of the national discourse surrounding the issue, and has assessed the current policy arrangements, as well as recent global and regional responses to calls for reform in that area.
The National School Hair Code was formulated after discussions held on Thursday with the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), denominational boards, National Principals’ Associations, the National Parent Teachers Association (NPTA), Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA) and other education stakeholders.
On the basis of the research done and discussions held, The National School Code of Conduct will be amended to include a National School Hair Code, which will provide broad guidelines for principals in the development of individual School Hair Rules, the ministry stated.
The National School Hair Code states:
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Students shall maintain neat and clean hair at all times.
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Hair that crosses shoulder length should be tied back at all times for safety reasons.
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Locs, twists, plaits, afros, cornrows, shall be allowed for all students, in compliance with individual School Hair Rules.
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Female students shall be allowed to wear hair extensions, including weaves and braids, in compliance with individual School Hair Rules.
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Wigs and dyed or coloured hair for students are not allowed. In exceptional cases, as determined by the School Principal, approval may be granted to students.
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Hairstyles that obstruct the normal view of others are not allowed, except for religious reasons.
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Eyebrow markings and eyelash extensions are not allowed.
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Haircut parting designs should be simple. Intricate designs are not allowed.
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Hair ornaments should be in compliance with individual School Hair Rules.
School Hair Rules
The ministry states that individual schools are mandated to form a committee to determine their own School Hair Rules, which must align with the National School Hair Code. This committee will comprise representatives of pupils, staff and parents.
Schools should formulate their School Hair Rules by October 2023, a copy of which must be submitted to the line school supervisor before they are effected.
All parents and pupils should be sensitised by the school’s administration about the implementation of the School Hair Rules before they are effected.
During the intervening period between the coming into force of the National School Hair Code and the School Hair Rules of an individual school, no pupil should be penalised on the basis of a hairstyle, once they are in conformity with the National School Hair Code.
The relevant Circular Memoranda will be sent to principals regarding these matters, the ministry stated.
The Ministry of Education said it was cognizant of the fact that educational environment was a dynamic one, which requires, from time to time, adjustments to policies to keep pace with accepted changes in societal norms, values and beliefs.
