Student Dress Code Policy

PURPOSE

The Students’ Dress Code Policy at UGHE aims to foster a professional and respectful learning environment, promoting a sense of professionalism among students. This policy is designed to encourage a dress code that aligns with the institution’s values and prepares students for future roles in the global health sector.

DEFINITIONS

Professional attire: clothing that is neat, modest, and appropriate for an academic and professional setting.

Casual attire: relaxed clothing suitable for non-clinical, non-laboratory academic activities.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all UGHE students while on campus, participating in academic activities, clinical rotations, and official events.

PROCEDURE

Students are expected to adhere to appropriate dress code during all academic activities, including classes, seminars, and practical sessions. The code is to be followed on campus and during any off-site activities associated with UGHE.

4.1 General guidelines:

a) Students are expected to dress professionally, cleanly, and consider the academic environment.
b) Different settings (e.g., classrooms, laboratories, clinics) may have specific dress code requirements outlined by the respective departments.

4.2 Clinical settings:

Students participating in clinical activities must adhere and comply with the guidelines from the host institution.

Examples of acceptable and unacceptable attire for each setting.

Area	Allowed	Not allowed
Clinical setting	Scrubs Refer to host institution guidelines Religious or cultural attire is always respected, provided it meets safety requirements	Ripped, stained, or overly revealing clothing; Jewelry (except a simple wedding ring and earrings); Strong perfumes or fragrances; Sandals or open-toed shoes Shorts Swimwear, beachwear, and sleepwear are not permitted in academic or clinical activities. Clothing with offensive language, symbols, or images. Large hats, helmet, sunglasses or headgear that obscures the face Extremely casual clothing such as pajamas, excessively oversized or baggy clothes.
Classroom	Business casual attire (e.g., dress pants, collared shirts, skirts); Modest clothing that covers shoulders and midriffs; Closed-toe shoes Religious or cultural attire is always respected, provided it meets safety requirements	Ripped, stained, or overly revealing clothing; Athleisure wear (e.g., sweatpants, yoga pants); Tank tops, halter tops, or crop tops; Shorts (except knee-length or longer); Flip-flops, sandals, or open-toed shoes; Hats (except for religious or medical reasons); Strong perfumes or fragrances Swimwear, beachwear, and sleepwear are not permitted in academic or clinical activities. Clothing with offensive language, symbols, or images. Large hats, helmet, sunglasses or headgear that obscures the face Extremely casual clothing such as pajamas, excessively oversized or baggy clothes
Laboratory	Lab coat worn over appropriate attire (e.g., long pants, closed-toe shoes); Safety glasses and gloves as required; Hair tied back (long hair) Religious or cultural attire is always respected, provided it meets safety requirements	Shorts (except knee-length or longer); Skirts above the knee; Sandals or open-toed shoes; Jewelry (except a simple wedding ring and earrings); Loose clothing that could snag on equipment Swimwear, beachwear, and sleepwear are not permitted in academic or clinical activities. Clothing with offensive language, symbols, or images. Large hats, helmet, sunglasses or headgear that obscures the face Extremely casual clothing such as pajamas, excessively oversized or baggy clothes

4.3 Enforcement and reporting:

Faculty, clinical preceptors, and laboratory instructors are responsible for enforcing the policy with discretion and respect.
In case of non-compliance, individuals will be politely informed and offered guidance on appropriate attire. Repeated violations may result in disciplinary action following Students’ Discipline and Conduct policy.
Repeated violations may lead to counseling, and in severe cases, disciplinary action as per the Students’ Discipline and Conduct policy stated above.

RESPONSIBILITY

a) Campus Life Coordinator: is responsible for communicating and enforcing the dress code policy. They will provide guidance and clarification on appropriate attire for various settings.
b) Faculty and Staff: are responsible for enforcing the dress code during academic activities and reporting to Campus Life Coordinator any violations for handling when needed. Extreme cases are handled in light of the students’ Discipline and Conduct policy.

MATERIALS/DOCUMENTATIONS

Communication Materials:

a) Clear and accessible documentation outlining the dress code policy will be disseminated to all students.
b) Visual aids or examples may be provided to illustrate acceptable attire.

Record of Violations:

The Campus Life Coordinator should share any violations with the Registrar’s Office, who is responsible for maintaining student records, including reported dress code violations, and any actions taken.