Minister of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Kay McConney, in a press conference held yesterday September 14th stated that it had come to her attention that many parents are experiencing difficulty obtaining uniform fabric as well as pre-made school uniforms of the type, the size and the amount that they require.
She also reported that importers of uniform fabric, manufacturers and retailers of uniforms have also reported that there have been delays in the delivery of fabric to Barbados. The fabric shortage has slowed the manufacturing of uniforms; it has depleted retail stock of uniforms so certain sizes and colours are not available; and it has put the small-business dressmakers and tailors in communities under last-minute pressure to sew school uniforms.
In light of these challenges The Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training has decided to relax the regulations to the school uniform policy, until September 30th, 2022, after which it will be reviewed.
Therefore effective September 19th, the beginning of the new academic year, if a child is unable to wear the full school uniform, new or re-used, from the first day of school he or she will be allowed to dress in a manner appropriate for school which is in a plain-coloured t-shirt or a plain-coloured polo shirt and a jeans pants. Principals at the respective schools, will continue to work with parents to accommodate the relaxation in uniform regulations and to facilitate a smooth return to full face-to-face school.
