SCHOOL HAIR POLICIES: What We Should Know About Long Hair in School (Part 1)

A Maasai of Kenya

By Abunerry, Ayella

28-10-2025

I saw a video circulating online from Ghana, where a school took its students to salons to have their long hair shaved. The incident backfired, with some criticising and others applauding the move. I would rather not engage in the argument, but I have found myself a victim of a similar situation, as we once experienced the same scene in one of the schools I attended. Those who criticised the shaving of students’ hair called it “colonialism”, while others stood by the school’s policy.

It took me twelve hours to conduct personal research and gather important facts about long hair. In this case, I want to limit the fact-finding to the students who are most affected when issues related to hair shaving arise. My argument is a balanced one that looks at both the physical and academic effects of long hair. These include cultural identity, self-expression, confidence, and protection. Let us explore in detail the significance of long hair on students and encourage every reader to take appropriate action regarding hair shaving, bearing in mind the significance.

Long hair protects against sunlight and cold. When the hair is shaved, the scalp is left exposed, and strong sunlight or cold can easily affect it, leading to discomfort or unhealthy conditions.

Africans have long believed that hair represents cultural identity and a sense of belonging. The Maasai of Kenya, the Fulani of West Africa, and the Himba of Namibia identified themselves through their hair. They styled it in unique patterns and decorations, each carrying meaning and pride. Hair was, and still is, a strong symbol of identity and community.

Another important aspect of long hair is self-expression. Among the Fulani and the Nubians of Sudan and Egypt, artists wore shoulder-length hair as an expression of nobility. Among the Mangbetu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, long hair signified refinement and high social status.

Many students, especially those from cultures where long hair is a symbol of pride and beauty, feel confident and complete when they maintain it. This confidence helps them concentrate better because they feel comfortable in their appearance. When students feel good about how they look, they tend to engage more confidently in learning sessions.

Different hairstyles also promote diversity and tolerance among students. While some may not like long hair, a spirit of diversity and acceptance grows in an environment that allows such differences. Students learn to live together, respect one another, and appreciate each other’s cultures and beliefs.

Finally, this fact-finding is not meant to challenge students to rebel against school policies, nor is it intended to promote indiscipline. It is written purely for learning purposes — to inform readers that hair maintenance is part of cultural identity. What matters in this article is that long hair promotes confidence, cultural belonging, diversity, pride, beauty, and self-expression, focusing on the significance of long hair among students.

END.

Abunerry Ayella is a poet, writer, critic, and teacher.