The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has defended the Ghana Education Service’s (GES) directive on approved hairstyles for senior high school students, explaining that the policy is designed to promote discipline, uniformity, and focus in schools.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement organised by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) in Accra, the Minister said the directive was not intended to restrict personal expression but to create a learning environment that minimizes distractions and upholds equity among students.
“The directive on approved hairstyles is intended to promote uniformity, discipline, and equity among students. We are appealing to parents to cooperate with the Ghana Education Service to ensure full compliance,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
He noted that the education system must balance freedom with responsibility, and that schools have a duty to guide students toward discipline and order. “Our schools must remain spaces that nurture learning and character. Consistency in appearance helps reduce unnecessary competition and distraction among students,” he added.
The Minister also appealed to parents and guardians to support the directive, stressing that grooming standards are part of the holistic training that shapes students into responsible citizens. He emphasized that the GES will continue to engage stakeholders to ensure the implementation of policies in ways that respect cultural values and student welfare.
The hairstyle regulation has sparked mixed reactions from sections of the public, with some arguing it infringes on individual expression. However, education authorities maintain that the policy is a long-standing measure aimed at reinforcing discipline, promoting equality, and reducing social divides among students.
The Education Minister reiterated that the Ministry remains open to dialogue and feedback from all education stakeholders as it works to build a system grounded in excellence, discipline, and fairness.
