School uniforms

Żminijietna criticises the lack of a clear policy on school uniforms. The recommendations made recently by the Malta Authority for Competition and Consumer Affairs are a step forward. However, the recommendations are not binding. This, therfore, does not promise change to the present system. This is why the government should step in and regulate this sector. We believe that school uniforms are a way of ensuring social equality.

The authorities should ensure that the design of uniforms is comfortable and is kept as simple as possible while keeping prices low. Designs and dress code should also be gender neutral. The present system, based on colours to distinguish colleges, should remain because it gives an identity to the different schools and colleges.

We fully agree with the authority’s recommendations regarding the production and selling of uniforms, to liberalise the sector in such a way that the small local tailoring industry is given the chance to join in or to form tailoring cooperatives.

The authorities should also check that uniforms are not produced under sweatshop conditions and that changes in school uniforms are limited.

On the other hand, we appeal for a change in mentality towards using second-hand uniforms. Parents’ organisations or the respective schools can administer the collection of used uniforms still in good condition, for reuse by students. The government should also continue supporting families on low income.

We also appeal for an impact study about the negative effects of heavy school bags on children.