Ras Mubarak (L) and Haruna Iddrisu (R)
Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, has hit back at Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu over his comments endorsing short hair for students in senior high schools.
According to Ras Mubarak, the directive is misplaced and does nothing to shape students’ morality or prevent future corruption.
Speaking in reaction to the minister’s remarks during Mawuli Senior High School’s 75th anniversary celebration where Haruna Iddrisu said long hair would not be tolerated “as long as we are molding character” Ras Mubarak argued that morality is not determined by appearance.
In a post on social media on October 26, 2025, the former legislator questioned the logic behind the policy, referencing Ghana’s past “double-salary” scandal involving some public officials.
“How does keeping kids’ hair short stop them from growing to be double-salary takers or corrupt politicians? Schools should be focusing on civics, patriotism, and community service. That’s a more effective way to shape students’ values and behaviours,” he wrote.
He lamented that Ghana’s education system often prioritises superficial discipline over meaningful reform, stressing that corruption, lack of accountability, and waning patriotism are the real threats to nation-building.
“The Ministry should focus on encouraging kids to take a keen interest in Science and Math through competitions and award programs, improving the well-being of teachers, ensuring proper supervision especially in rural areas, providing safe and conducive learning environments for children and increasing attention to the teaching of civics,” Ras Mubarak added.
He concluded that genuine character formation stems from substance over perfunctory gestures, urging the Ministry of Education to channel its energy into improving the quality and relevance of education rather than policing students’ hair.
AM/SSM
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