The authorities of Santhia Upazila Parishad High School have sparked debate by issuing a formal notice mandating a specific "model" hairstyle for all male students.
The school warned that those failing to comply with the prescribed "army-style" cut will face strict disciplinary action.
The notice, signed by Headmaster Md. Liton Uddin and posted on April 9, states that starting April 15, students must appear with short hair and trimmed nails as depicted in an accompanying diagram. The instruction reportedly originated from the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), who also serves as the school’s president.
The move has split the local community. While some parents support the emphasis on cleanliness and uniformity, others view it as an unnecessary intrusion. "Discipline is important, but threatening punishment over a haircut creates undue mental pressure on children," said one parent under anonymity.
Headmaster Md. Liton Uddin defended the policy stating it aims to promote equality and a proper educational environment.
UNO Riju Tamanna echoed this sentiment clarifying that the goal is to ensure students remain tidy. "It is not appropriate for students to keep long hair.
We want to see them clean, with hair short enough that it cannot be grasped, and nails trimmed weekly. This should be viewed as a positive step for discipline," the UNO added.
