Nyasakura, an educational institution in East Africa, has gained attention for its progressive stance on school uniforms. Notably, boys confidently embrace skirts as part of their daily attire, igniting discussions on inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and nurturing a more tolerant society.
The unconventional uniform policy at Nyasakura defies traditional expectations linked to gender and clothing. In a society where strict gender norms often dictate dress codes, Nyasakura stands out as a catalyst for change, championing acceptance and embracing diversity.
The school’s history reveals that its unique approach to uniforms traces back to its founder, Lieutenant-Commander Ernest William Eborhard Calwell, a Scottish missionary who established the school in 1926. Despite facing opposition from the Buganda Kingdom, which resisted adopting Scottish culture, Calwell fled and found refuge in Nyakasura. There, he founded the school, promoting Scottish culture among the locals.
The current principal shared that the school’s uniform policy aims to instill confidence in boys, fostering the development of strong leaders and establishing a unique identity. In an interview with Afrimax English, the principal clarified that the attire in question is not a skirt, as some have labeled it, but rather kilts—a traditional garment worn by men in the Scottish Highlands. Kilts are notably the only national costume in the British Isles worn regularly rather than solely for special occasions.
Despite facing mockery from the community, the principal asserted that students cherish their uniforms, as they contribute to their distinctive identity. Nyakasura being a mixed-gender school, visitors may find it challenging to differentiate between boys and girls due to the uniform’s unisex nature.
According to the principal, every student views the kilt as a normal attire, and the uniform ensemble includes a kilt, belt, knee-socks, kilt hose cuffs, and red leg warmers. The boys’ kilts even feature small bags for carrying essentials like pens and handkerchiefs. The students emphasized that the kilt is an integral part of the school culture, and they feel comfortable wearing it.
Despite facing insults and criticism from students of other schools for donning what some perceive as girls’ uniforms, Nyakasura students remain unfazed. One student expressed, “Some people say that it is a shame to wear a skirt, but this is not a skirt, and I also don’t have a problem with it because I have been wearing it for four years now.”
Beyond its distinctive attire, Nyakasura is recognized for its academic achievements in national examinations and its numerous trophies in co-curricular activities, further setting it apart from other schools.
