Guyana’s Education Ministry warns schools against sending students home for hairstyle violations

Guyana’s Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Tuesday issued a stern warning to educational institutions against dismissing students due to their hairstyles. 

She warned that schools that fail to adhere to the directive may face disciplinary action.

Reiteration from the Ministry

Reports are that the Ministry of Education reinforced its stance by releasing an official statement. 

It reminded schools that students should remain unaffected by any breaches or perceived breaches of hairstyle regulations.

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The incident that sparked a stern warning

This cautionary note from the Ministry comes on the heels of a reported incident from South Ruimveldt Secondary School. 

According to reports, a student was allegedly sent home due to her hairstyle, causing a stir on social media platforms.

Earlier in the year, the Ministry had disseminated a memorandum addressing these possible issues.

It emphasized that students should not face any penalties over perceived hairstyle breaches. 

The memo also highlighted the importance of ensuring students are present in school to prevent further learning loss.

Engaging parents in discussions

In cases where a student’s hairstyle might be viewed as inappropriate, the memorandum suggests a more constructive approach. 

It is advised that schools invite the student’s parents or guardians for a discussion regarding the perceived infraction.

The Ministry of Education said that it has no policy regulating hairstyles in schools; rules have been created by the schools themselves.

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