Students at Moi University and Bomet University are being forced to rethink their campus wardrobes after the institutions introduced strict rules on dressing.
The new regulations have sparked mixed reactions among comrades, with some supporting the move while others question whether universities should have a say in how adult students dress.
According to the new directive, students have been warned against wearing Crocs, slippers, micro and mini skirts, tight and rugged trousers, “tumbo” cut blouses and T-shirts bearing obscene messages.
Those who fail to comply with the regulations could face disciplinary action.
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Staff members have also reportedly been directed not to serve students who turn up in the prohibited attire.
Comrades forced to rethink fashion choices
The directive has already seen some students change how they dress when heading to lectures and university offices.
Some have opted for longer skirts, loose-fitting trousers, decent tops and closed shoes as they seek to avoid clashing with university authorities.
But the new rules have also opened a wider conversation among students and members of the public over what exactly amounts to “decent” dressing.
One commenter welcomed the move, saying:
“Sanity should be restored in these called institutions of higher learning 😞.”
Another, however, argued that universities have more pressing problems to address, particularly financial challenges.
“There are other urgent issues to discuss about this institution, for example I heard its financial crisis. What are you doing as institution to restore normalcy? Dress code let them show what they have, good dressing is when employed, for now leave comrades alone buana.”
Another person agreed with the emphasis on decent dressing, while raising concerns about morality on campuses.
“Decent dressing I agree 💯... Most institutions also should take this seriously coz it seems immorality is also a course in the so called institutions. 😔😔”
Not everyone was convinced that clothing should be used to judge students.
One commenter put it bluntly:
“Nguo haisomi ni akili n fikra za mtu mtu maisha ni ya kwake.”
And then came a sarcastic take on the new regulations:
“Very nice, guarding an educational institution from a fashion show.”
campus dress code\\ animated AI
Parents, students divided
The new rules have also attracted the attention of parents, with some welcoming the move.
Supporters argue that universities are learning institutions and that students should understand that different environments have different standards.
They believe dressing appropriately can help young people adapt to professional environments once they enter the workplace.
However, others have questioned how far universities should go in controlling the appearance of adult students.
The biggest concern for some students is how words such as “tight”, “inappropriate” and “decent” will be interpreted and enforced.
With campus fashion being an important part of student culture, the regulations are likely to continue generating debate as students adjust to the new expectations.
For now, comrades have been left with one simple task: check that outfit twice before leaving the hostel.
Whether the new dress code will bring more discipline or simply turn campus fashion into another battleground remains to be seen.
