Afe Babalola University Ado Ekiti (ABUAD) has unveiled a dress code for students, aimed at promoting discipline, professionalism, and a strong sense of identity linked to their chosen careers.
The announcement came during the university’s 17th matriculation ceremony, where 2,764 fresh students were officially welcomed into the institution. The cohort included some foreign students from the United Kingdom, Pakistan, and Sierra Leone.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, who spoke at the event held on the ABUAD campus, said the dress code is part of the university’s identity and reflects the standards expected of students.
“At ABUAD, the dress code is unique; it is part of students’ identity, reflecting discipline, professionalism and a clear sense of belonging to their chosen career,” she said.
The dress code includes specific guidelines:
Male students: Shirts must be tucked in and ties are mandatory.
Female students: Corporate dressing is required.
Students are advised to avoid provocative clothing, excessive jewellery, and flamboyant hairstyles.
“A neat and professional appearance stands you out,” the VC said.
Professor Olarinde also explained that each college has a designated colour for its dress code. She said:
College of Engineering: Green
College of Law: White on black
College of Medicine & Health Sciences: Red
College of Pharmacy: Purple
College of Sciences: Light yellow
College of Social and Management Sciences: Blue
She told the students that the way they dress influences how they are addressed, and urged them to uphold the standard as part of ABUAD’s tradition.
The VC reminded the fresh students that the university was founded on the principles of labour, service, and integrity, and encouraged them to embrace these values.
She also warned them about the freedom of university life, saying that the choices they make will determine their success.
“Life at the university is different from secondary school. Here, you are given a golden ticket to make choices, chart your path, and shape your destiny. But remember, with great freedom come great responsibilities,” she said.
Professor Olarinde urged students to avoid bad company, citing George Washington’s words: “It is far better to be alone than to be in bad company.”
She stressed that a university is defined by its students, adding that without committed learners, excellence is impossible.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.