Kasese Catholic schools permitted to allow A-level girls to keep natural hair

What the report says

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kasese, Rt Rev Francis Aquirinus Kibira, has told Catholic-founded schools in the district to allow female A-level students to keep and maintain their natural hair. The decision marks a change from the long-standing practice in many Ugandan schools of requiring learners to keep short hair, a rule often justified as a way to reduce distraction, save time and money, and discourage comparisons among students.

According to The Observer, Bishop Kibira said the more flexible approach is meant to help older girls prepare for university and other higher education settings, where students usually have more personal freedom. He argued that learners at A-level are mature enough to make independent choices, while teachers should guide rather than impose unnecessary restrictions.

He also said the policy would help build responsibility and independence before students move on to tertiary education. The report noted that some schools in Kampala and Wakiso already permit a wider range of hairstyles. In the same address, Kibira said he plans to buy suits for top student leaders in Catholic schools as a way of recognizing leadership and encouraging others.

The bishop also used the occasion to warn schools against harassment and exploitation of female students, calling for strict action against teachers found responsible. He urged educators to treat girls with care and respect and condemned demands for sexual favours in exchange for access to services, employment or other opportunities.