The President of the NPP Patriots, Calvin Mensah, has criticized the Education Ministry’s recent directive enforcing strict no-haircut policies in second-cycle schools, calling it a misdirected focus at a time when more pressing educational issues demand attention.
Mensah reacted to statements made by Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu during Mawuli School’s 75th Anniversary, in which the Minister tasked the Ghana Education Service (GES) and school heads with monitoring students’ appearances. Mensah described the focus on hairstyles as outdated, arguing that enforcing uniform looks suppresses individuality, creativity, and self-expression—essential elements of modern education and leadership development.
He also expressed concern that the directive disrespects parents, who are capable of making informed decisions about their children’s grooming. Mensah emphasized that education should prioritize digital literacy, student welfare, proper school placements, nutrition, access to clean water, and mental health support, rather than regulating appearances.
Calvin Mensah insisted that his stance is not political but patriotic, highlighting the need for progressive reforms that truly benefit students. He urged the Ministry of Education to concentrate on substantive issues that enhance learning conditions and student growth, rather than imposing measures like the haircut directive, which he views as superficial and outdated.
The NPP Patriots’ President called on the government to reorient educational policies toward meaningful improvements in schools that directly impact the quality of education and well-being of Ghanaian students.
