University of AJK Enforces Ban on T-Shirts and Jeans for Students

University of AJK

The University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (UAJK) has officially prohibited students from wearing T-shirts and jeans, introducing a dress code aimed at maintaining the “dignity and sanctity” of the institution.

According to a circular issued on August 29, which surfaced publicly on Tuesday, both students and staff are required to dress modestly, keeping local cultural and religious values in mind.

This move follows a recent trend among educational institutions in Pakistan, as it is the second such dress code policy introduced within the past month.

In a similar development, the Government College University (GCU) in Lahore implemented a dress code last month that also discouraged the wearing of T-shirts and jeans on campus. GCU’s policy emphasized modest attire and warned that non-compliance would be “strictly dealt with.”

In the case of UAJK, the administration clarified that the restrictions were not meant to impose rigidity or regimentation. Instead, the dress code is designed to promote discipline, punctuality, and respect for religious values.

The university believes that adhering to the dress code helps present a “positive image” of the institution and promotes cultural and religious values while maintaining good morale and safety across its campuses.

The guidelines set forth by the university outline specific attire for both male and female students. Female students are required to wear traditional shalwar qameez paired with a dupatta or gown.

Male students, on the other hand, must wear formal attire, which includes dress pants and collared shirts, or alternatively, shalwar qameez.

The circular also provides a comprehensive list of attire deemed inappropriate. These include tight or see-through clothing, shorts, sleeveless shirts, T-shirts bearing provocative language or imagery, and torn clothing.

The university also prohibits jogging attire during classes and discourages excessive makeup, expensive jewelry, and immodest clothing in classrooms, cafeterias, and offices. Students are also advised against wearing unprofessional clothing to formal events or interviews.

UAJK’s dress code further states that students should avoid drawing unnecessary attention to themselves through their clothing, accessories, hairstyles, body markings, or piercings.

Additionally, explicit clothing and sunglasses indoors are banned, while hair must be kept clean, and long hair should be tied back.

The university has urged students to “strictly” follow these new dress code rules, warning that disciplinary action will be taken against those who violate the policy.

The UAJK administration is determined to enforce the regulations, which they believe are essential for maintaining the cultural and religious integrity of the institution.