CHP leader criticizes new school dress code

BURSA - Anatolia News Agency

Banning little girls from wearing sleeveless clothes can be only regarded as an [act of] perversion, Kılıçdaroğlu says of a new dress codes for students. DHA photo

A new public school dress code that allows for casual clothing to be worn in schools under specific requirements has come under criticism by main opposition Republican Peoples’ Party (CHP) chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu.

The nation’s educational system began to fail with the introduction of the new 4+4+4 system, CHP leader Kılıçdaroğlu told a group of factory workers in the northwestern province of Bursa while answering questions regarding the abolishment of uniforms in schools.

Social inequality and psychological disorders

“Imagine a child who wears clothes from good brands and those who cannot afford to [do the same]. Who will be responsible for these children’s psychological disorders? Do you think children could be manipulated as a tool for politics? This is not right; we must stand against it,” Kılıçdaroğlu said.

“Banning little girls from wearing sleeveless clothes can only be regarded as an [act of] perversion. We are gradually losing the Republican values. The reason for a monotype uniform is to make all children feel equal and to disguise economic differences,” he said.

Abolishment to be effective in next year

As of Nov. 28 the Turkish Ministry of Education abolished the nationwide monotype uniform requirement in schools. The amendments to the dress codes were published in the Official Gazette Nov. 27.
Under the new regulations, students will be allowed to wear casual clothing that meets specific requirements at schools. Transparent, too-tight or sleeveless clothing is forbidden under the new code, as well as any clothes or accessories bearing emblematic political symbols, shapes or writing.
Prime Minister Recep

Tayyip Erdoğan defended the move, saying education in uniform has drawn complaints for many years.