THIS refers to uniforms to be worn in not only schools but also in colleges and universities. Being a student and an individual from the privileged section of society, I find it necessary to raise my voice on this issue. A lot of money, time and energy is required to be put into buying and stitching clothes. This is not only a major waste of useful time but also a huge financial burden on the underprivileged who, with great difficulty, hardly manage any funds for education.

The other problem increasing dreadfully is the manner in which a person is judged by the way he or she is dressed. Categories are set and thus treatment of people varies.

A quote by Albert Einstein comes to one’s mind: “If most of us are ashamed of shabby clothes, let us be more ashamed of shabby ideas and shoddy philosophies.... It would be a sad situation if the wrapper were better than the meat wrapped inside it.”

It is most demeaning to measure a human being by his attire. Education does not teach us to treat a human being on the basis of his dress. What is the use of gaining education if it doesn’t actually change one’s materialistic mindset? Most of the religions do not preach such despicable ideas. Having uniforms in all educational institutions does not in any way eradicate individuality; it is man’s personality which makes him an individual.

Uniforms will not only create unity among students but will also enable physical decency which is now uncommon in the education sector.

TEHMINA SHAIKH Lahore