Ouagadougou – The start of the third term turned into chaos for dozens of students at Yennenga Vocational High School. This Tuesday, the institution strictly enforced a new ministerial decree on permitted hairstyles, causing shock and anger among students, as reported by a journalist from the Burkina Information Agency (AIB) on the scene.
Buzz Cut or Nothing
The decree, issued on March 6, 2025, is clear: boys must wear a “simple and unadorned” haircut, while girls are allowed to wear natural braids or cornrows. But this morning, the regulation was enforced with a severity that left students stranded.
“We were told about the decree before the holidays, but we didn’t think it would be this strict,” confides a student anonymously. “They rejected our twists, even though they’re our natural hair!”
Measures Are Planned
The principal, Tamalgo Julie Zoungrana, stands by the decision. “Many students complied, but those who refused were turned away,” she explains. “And when a student is absent, measures are planned,” she adds, alluding to sanctions.
Some students had to improvise compliant hairstyles on the sidewalk to gain access to the school. “I had to undo my twists and do quick cornrows,” recounts Reine, still in shock.
Regulating Appearance
The Ministry of Education has reaffirmed its commitment to “regulating the appearance” of students, but the measure is already sparking controversy. “It’s an infringement on our freedoms,” protests a student. “We’re not soldiers!”
The matter is likely to cause waves in the coming days, as students and their parents organize to challenge this new regulation.
