Moi University, ‘No crop tops, minis, sleeveless tops, ragged trousers…’
Students studying at Moi University will have to adhere to new regulations on matters of dress code.
In an internal memo dated February 6, 2024, the university asked students to dress decently and also banned several dressing styles while in the institution’s compound.
“I wish to bring to your attention the rules and regulations governing the conduct and discipline of students. The students are expected to dress decently in modest and appropriate attire. However, we have observed and noted with concern the indecent dressing by some of you,” the memo signed by Dr Alice Mutai, the Dean of Students read in part.
The memo revealed that dressing in mini-skirts, skin-tight trousers, ragged/torn/ripped jeans, tumbo cuts blouses and shirts, low-cut blouses/dresses, micro-shorts and transparent dresses was not official.
In addition, attires that show bra straps or sleeveless t-shirts, t-shirts with obscene writing, sagging trousers and all plastic shoes are not official wear.
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Dr Mutai banned the dress codes saying that no student will be allowed to access the university if they are dressed inappropriately saying that disciplinary action will be taken against them.
Members of staff were also asked not to attend to students who were dressed inappropriately or else action would also be taken against them.
In October 2023, several universities also released a similar memo which is used in guiding students on how they should dress while in school.
They include; Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya Methodist University, Strathmore University and University of Eldoret.
A dress code defines acceptable attire for particular groups, institutions and occupations, guided by social norms and dependent on purpose, circumstance and occasion.
Nevertheless, critics argue that dress codes, particularly in universities, disproportionately target female students.