Uttar Pradesh Governor pushes for uniform dress code in colleges and universities

Universities and colleges across Uttar Pradesh may soon introduce mandatory uniforms following new directions issued by Governor Anandiben Patel in her capacity as Chancellor of state universities.

The decision was announced during a review meeting chaired by the Governor, where she instructed higher educational institutions to implement a uniform system similar to schools.

At present, universities and colleges in the state do not have a compulsory dress code for students.

According to the Governor, a uniform policy would help reduce social and economic disparities among students and promote equality on campuses.

Alongside the uniform directive, Anandiben Patel also emphasized the need for employment-focused education in higher institutions.

She asked universities and colleges to launch new vocational and skill-based courses aimed at improving self-employment opportunities, particularly for women students.

“To make female students employment-oriented and self-dependent,” Governor Anandiben Patel instructed universities and colleges to start vocational courses.

She specifically directed institutions to introduce courses such as beautician training, mehendi, GST, bindi manufacturing, accountancy, and millet-based food preparation so that students can become capable of self-employment and securing jobs.

She further said that successful programs already running in some institutions should be adopted as models for wider implementation across the state.

The Governor also reviewed issues related to women’s safety and hostel facilities. She stressed the need to improve conditions in women’s hostels and ensure adequate protection for female students on campuses.

She said students should receive proper guidance so they remain protected from anti-social influences and are able to lead secure and respectful lives.

Universities and colleges were also directed to create committees where male and female students can openly raise concerns and receive timely solutions.

During the meeting, Anandiben Patel issued strict instructions to teachers, saying no faculty member should engage in activities that damage the dignity of the teaching profession.

She asked teachers to focus on students’ overall development and ensure regular classes and punctual attendance.

The Governor also called on institutions to study the National Education Policy in detail and implement its principles effectively. She said students should have the freedom to choose subjects and gain multidisciplinary exposure.

Apart from their primary academic disciplines, students should also be encouraged to learn yoga, painting, and other practical skills that could improve their employment prospects, she added.