UPSA Dress Code Controversy: Students Barred from Lectures Over Attire

Jul 3, 2025 - 11:04

Accra, Ghana - 3 July, 2025 - A controversy has erupted at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), after students were barred from entering lecture halls on Wednesday due to the strict enforcement of the institution's dress code. The move has sparked confusion and frustration among the student body, with many questioning the consistency and fairness of the policy.

According to reports, the dress code, which is typically enforced on Mondays, was unexpectedly applied on Wednesday, July 2, leaving many students unprepared. As a result, hundreds of students, including those scheduled to take tests, were denied entry to classes. The situation escalated when a female public relations student was reportedly dragged by an unidentified individual, believed to be a staff member, for an unclear offense.

Students have expressed frustration over the inconsistency in the enforcement of the dress code, with some questioning the definition of "official" attire. Many students who were dressed in what they believed to be official attire were still turned away, while others who appeared to be in similar attire were allowed to enter. The incident has raised concerns about fairness and possible bias, particularly toward Level 100 students, who seemed to be disproportionately targeted.

The university has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or clarify the application of the dress code policy. The lack of clarity and consistency has left students feeling frustrated and uncertain about the rules and regulations governing their academic activities.

Meanwhile, the university enforced a strict dress code policy starting July 1, 2025, as outlined in a memo from the Office of the Dean of Students. The policy prohibits students from wearing indecent attire to lectures, including unkempt hair, shorts, bathroom slippers, tracksuits, anklets, nose rings and other items deemed inappropriate.

The memo, dated June 30, 2025, reminds students of the long-standing dress code policy detailed in the 2018 Undergraduate Students’ Handbook. According to the handbook, students are expected to dress professionally, reflecting the university's mantra of "Scholarship with Professionalism". A task force has been deployed to enforce compliance, and students who fail to meet the expected standards will be denied entry into lecture rooms.

Key Points of UPSA's Dress Code Policy:

- Prohibited Items:
- Unkempt hair
- Shorts
- Bathroom slippers
- Tracksuits
- Anklets
- Nose rings
- Expected Attire:
- Neat and professional clothing
- No revealing or indecent dressing
- Enforcement:
- Task force deployed to strategic locations
- Students denied entry for non-complianceThe University of Professional Studies, Accra, is a reputable institution in Ghana, known for its professional and academic programs. The incident has sparked concerns about the management of student affairs and the need for clear communication and consistent application of rules and regulations.