The St. Kitts and Nevis Ministry of Education has issued new student hair restrictions, which will take effect in September 2023.
The hair restrictions were put in place to avoid any potential discrimination based on hair and hairstyles.
The recommendations are intended to assist school leaders in creating a welcoming educational atmosphere while ensuring that students’ access to education is not restricted.
Here are nine things you should know about St Kitts and Nevis’ new hair regulation for students:
Students must keep their hair nice and clean at all times.
Male and female students may wear traditional hairstyles, natural locs, afros, and cornrows.
Hairstyles must not block other students’ regular vision. Natural hairstyles (for example, afros) or hairstyles for religious or medical reasons must be handled to avoid visual obstacles.
Haircut designs are limited to only two straight lines. Each line should not be longer than 10cm/4 inches.
Extensions are exclusively available to female students. Extensions should not fall below the shoulders for safety reasons, especially in lab spaces. Buns should be no more than 10cm/4 inches broad. Extensions should be the same color as the natural hair. Hair extensions and rubber bands are not permitted for students in nurseries and preschools.
Wigs and weaves, as well as unnatural hair color, are not permitted. If a female student has a verified medical condition that causes hair loss (alopecia, scalp infections, lupus, cancer, etc.), she will be permitted to wear a wig.
Students in preschool through grade 2 are not permitted to wear beads for safety reasons. Beads are not permitted to be worn by males. (If a female student in grade 3 or higher chooses to wear beads, they must be firmly positioned to prevent contact with their eyes). All hair accessories, including ponytails, bows, and ribbons, should be the same color as the uniform.
Eyebrow markings/lines, as well as eyelash extensions, are not permitted. Male students are encouraged to maintain their facial hair, including sideburns and beards. (Students may shave their beards).
Students must observe all safety requirements for specialized areas such as science labs, industrial shops, home economics centers, and so on.
According to the Ministry of Education, the new hair restrictions for kids are intended to establish an inclusive and courteous atmosphere that supports diversity and self-expression in accordance with school norms.
