School uniforms are believed to be a practice which dates to the 16th century in the United Kingdom. It is believed that the Christ’s Hospital School in England in 1552 was the first school to use a school uniform.
In any case, a school uniform is a uniform worn by students primarily for a school or otherwise educational institution. They are common in primary and secondary schools in various countries.
Although often used interchangeably, there is an important distinction between dress codes and school uniforms: according to scholars such as Nathan Joseph, clothing can only be considered a uniform when it “(a) serves as a group emblem, (b) certifies an institution’s legitimacy by revealing individual’s relative positions and (c) suppresses individuality.”
On the course of her outreach across schools in Enugu to inspire students and distribute her book: ‘Values For Daily Living’, the founder of Helpshpere Foundation and CEO, GrassRoots Global Media Limited, Sandra Ani found it fascinating that Mrs. Ijeoma Okpe, the Principal of Trans-Ekulu Girls Secondary School, Enugu State (Nigeria) wears uniform to school; looking like a student!
Sandra approached Mrs Okpe to understand her reasons. Excerpt.
Principal of Trans-Ekulu Girls Secondary School, Enugu State (Photo: Sandra Ani)
Wow! This is interesting. You dress as though you are a student of this school. What could be your reason, ma?
I decided to dress in this form, first, to identify with my students. It makes them feel so much at home. Most students feel free to share things with me more than they even share with their parents. It’s a way to give the students a sense of belonging, knowing they are all students and we keep learning every day of our lives.
Secondly, this is my way of building student-principal relationships. Some students see their principal as Goliath, thus, unapproachable. So, I decided to Come down to their level so they can have access to me and relate comfortably.
This is quite interesting. But, don’t you feel discomfort dressing that way to school?
Not at all. I see means to inculcate the spirit of modesty amongst students. These days students are improperly dressed and we must do our part to stop that. I needed to teach them modesty by living by example.
It is also important to note that some male teachers constantly felt harassed by such indecent dressing among female students. That is not the culture we want to build in Trans-Ekulu Girls Secondary School. During classes these students can’t sit properly because their skirts are too short. And this exposes their body.
Also, some students can’t partake in some activities in school, because their skirts are either too tight or too short. Some can’t even run when asked to.
Sandra Ani speaking to the students
In what ways has dressing in that manner helped your administration in the school?
This is one of the most interesting parts; dressing this way has helped my leadership. On many occasions I have caught some students in the act. So, when I am on inspection most students do not easily detect that I am the one coming until I have caught two or three of them. In all, it is about inculcating good values in our students.