GES bans skin bleaching, wearing of chains, bangles, caps, braces in SHSs
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has recently instituted a statewide ban on skin bleaching among students in all Second Cycle institutions in an effort to maintain discipline and foster a positive learning environment.
This instruction is a part of the recently adopted harmonized Code of Conduct for pre-tertiary students by the Ghana Education Service Council.
The code’s “Improper Dressing” section states specifically that “Bleaching of the skin by a student shall not be allowed.” It is believed that the action is an attempt to dissuade pupils from engaging in undesirable cosmetic practices and to encourage a positive body image.
“Students shall not wear chains, bangles, caps, braces. Wearing of spectacles shall be with medical presentation. No alterations to school uniforms or dress shall be allowed. Unprescribed attire found in the possession of a student is an offence attire is an offence. Using unprescribed attire by a student is an offence,
Students should have a decent haircut as prescribed by the school authorities. Hair should be clean, neat, and modest, and avoid extremes in styles and colour. Men’s hair should be neatly struck and beard clean shaven,”” the Code of Conduct stipulates.
The harmonized Code of Conduct for the GES is a reference guide that aims to uphold general principles and directives while promoting and maintaining discipline at the pre-tertiary level of education. This action is a part of a larger effort to establish order and consistency in the classroom, highlighting the importance of proper grooming and appearance standards in creating a welcoming environment for learning.
