Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, has issued a stern warning to school administrators, stating that any actions leading to the dismissal of students based on their hairstyles will be met with disciplinary consequences.
This directive comes alongside the Minister’s call for schools to consider revising clothing and hair policies in light of the prevailing hot weather conditions experienced in Guyana.
Minister Manickchand emphasized the importance of creating a conducive learning environment, suggesting that relaxed clothing and hair policies can help both students and teachers cope with the ongoing heatwave.
In January of the current year, the Education Ministry issued a circular, explicitly stating that no child should be sent home on the grounds of their hairstyle. The Minister clarified that while schools may have hair policies in place, they are not authorized to resort to sending students home.
Instead, she urged schools to engage parents and seek amicable solutions.
Furthermore, teachers who act in contravention of this policy may be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with the rules of the Teaching Service Commission.
The Minister also addressed recent grievances from students and educators, citing instances where they were sent home for their clothing choices and faced restrictions regarding water consumption and bathroom breaks.
While she underscored the need for a structured classroom environment, Minister Manickchand urged flexibility, especially in managing water and restroom breaks.
“Teachers teaching all day do not need to be in jackets and turtlenecks, they can come in clothes that are comfortable to them,” Minister Manickchand added, emphasizing the need for practicality in school policies.
Manickchand concluded by urging school administrators to implement rules that are conducive to learning and in the best interest of the children.
She urged schools to continually evaluate and refine their systems to ensure an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Reported by Josiah Williams, NCN News