Mumtaz Moosa | mumtazs@icloud.com
16 May 2023 | 11:15 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: IOL News

While many groups push for inclusivity within schools, we still must address the elephant in the room. School uniforms!

With the temperatures dropping across the country as we prepare for winter, many South African schoolchildren battle to adhere to the school winter policy due to the exorbitant cost of school uniforms. More than 36% of learners have faced discrimination from schools as they cannot afford uniforms.

Many government schools still monopolise school uniforms, making winter uniforms almost unaffordable to many children. Parents have reported that schools have said either you get the uniform and abide by the rules, or your child can stay home until they have a proper uniform. 

While doing basic research with some schools within the Johannesburg North area, I have found that most schools have specialised uniforms that cannot be bought at local stores. Another interesting factor is tracksuit tops and pants sold separately at R450 a pair and school jerseys or jackets at R260 each.

Parents need to fork out R710 for one uniform, excluding the winter physical education kit, which differs in some schools and is worn on certain days. Most schools do have a swap shop or second-hand shop, but it works on what is available, and this is the only affordable solution at some schools.

The Department needs to step in and make the necessary changes to make uniforms affordable. Schools must also start by abiding by the law and not discourage students from entering school premises due to not being able to afford a school uniform. 

According to the law, no child may be refused admission to a school because of an inability to obtain or wear the school uniform. Schools, through their School Governing Body, should try to assist learners who cannot afford a school uniform.

Parents should engage the SGB regarding the uniform policy and ask them if they are considering a change in the future. Some schools have already moved towards a generic uniform that can be bought at any store and a school emblem purchased to be added to the uniform. 

If all else fails, get parents at the school to contact the Competition Commission regarding their concerns.