YES

Fosters solidarity

Uniforms foster a sense of solidarity among students. They place all students on an equal footing, discouraging any sense of superiority or inferiority that may arise amongst pupils.

Soham Pathak

La Martiniere For Boys, Calcutta

Stops discrimination

There is nothing wrong with college students wearing uniforms. It stops discrimination and making fun of students who cannot afford new clothes frequently. There are many students who come from a marginalised section of society and they would rather utilise what little money they have for better purposes than buying clothes. Also, clothes cannot measure intellect.

Aamirah Khurram

Loreto Day School, Elliot Road, Calcutta

Sense of pride

A uniform teaches a student how to present himself or herself. It also creates a feeling of pride, togetherness and decency. That, in turn, reduces bunking classes. Since a uniform makes you stand out in the crowd, it offers a measure of protection too against human trafficking.

Uma Roy

Shri Shikshayatan School, Calcutta

NO

No good reason

The purpose of going to college or university is to pursue knowledge; a uniform doesn’t enhance learning. Neither does it improve discipline or decency. Those old enough to attend college are also mature enough to know what to wear. Last but not the least, costly uniforms are often unaffordable for students from impoverished families.

Suhita Saha

Aditya Academy Senior Secondary, Calcutta

Commercialisation

Uniforms in institutions of higher learning is an offshoot of commercialisation of the sector, enabling institutions to make money off the students. Moreover, the uniforms are often poorly designed and made from cheap materials, making students uncomfortable and diverting their attention from studies. Forcing a student to wear an unimaginative uniform stifles freedom of expression and choice, and has no place on a college campus.

Dibya Rana Saha Roy, University of Calcutta

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