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The Ministry of Education has clarified its position on student hairstyles and grooming in schools, amid ongoing public discussions about fairness, cultural expression, and student rights.

According to the Ministry, the National School Code of Conduct provides a principle-based framework governing student behaviour and appearance. It does not prescribe or prohibit specific hairstyles. Instead, it requires that school-level guidelines be reasonable, non-discriminatory, respectful of students’ dignity, and consistent with the best interests of the child.

Schools may establish rules on uniform and grooming to support order, safety, and discipline. However, these rules must be applied fairly, respect cultural identity and personal expression, and must not result in humiliation, exclusion, or denial of access to learning.