The Influence of Religion on Student Dressing in Tertiary Institutions in Ghana

Authors

  • S. M. Ayesu Kumasi Technical University, Ghana
  • E. Y. Amos Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.
  • L. Armah Accra Technical University.
  • R. F. Kansanba Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.
  • T. Crentsil Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26437/ajar.v11i2.1019

Keywords:

Dress code. indecent dressing. policies. religious beliefs. student

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates how religion affects student dress at Ghanaian universities, particularly at Accra Technical University (ATU) and Kumasi Technical University (KsTU). It looks into how students' wardrobe choices are influenced by their religious convictions in light of the rising prevalence of indecent attire among college students.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative survey used a structured questionnaire to collect student data, and 304 respondents answered the questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics from the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study examined the relationship between students' religious beliefs and clothing codes at various colleges.

Findings: The findings show that religious convictions significantly impact what students wear to Ghanaian universities. The study emphasises the necessity of dress code regulations and policies that consider these factors and encourage students to behave appropriately.

Research Limitation: This study examines two institutions and offers important insights into the viewpoints of Ghanaian universities. Hence the findings cannot be generalised.

Social Implication: The results highlight how crucial it is to consider religious views when debating student dress standards, arguing that they should uphold decency while honouring cultural and religious values.

Practical Implication: According to the survey, college religious communities should be consulted when creating dress code policies. To address concerns about indecent dress, these rules should explicitly outline what is appropriate for different circumstances, including public spaces and classrooms.

Originality/Value: This study advances knowledge of how religion influences Ghanaian students' fashion choices. It offers insightful information for legislators and educational establishments seeking to establish welcoming and courteous spaces considering their student groups' cultural and religious backgrounds.

Author Biographies

S. M. Ayesu, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana

Dr. Solomon Marfo Ayesu is a Senior Lecturer at the in the Department of Fashion Design and Textiles Studies at Kumasi Technical University in Ghana.

E. Y. Amos, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

Dr. Emmanuel Yaw Amos is a Lecturer at the Department of Fashion Design and Textiles Studies, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

L. Armah, Accra Technical University.

Dr. Linda Armah is a Lecturer at the Department of Fashion and Textiles Design, Accra Technical University, Ghana.

R. F. Kansanba, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

Mrs. Rowena Fatchu Kansanba is a Lecturer at the Department of Fashion Design and Textiles Studies, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

T. Crentsil, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

Dr. Timothy Crentsil is a Senior Lecturer at the  Department of Fashion Design and Textiles Studies, Kumasi Technical University, Ghana.

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Published

2025-04-23

How to Cite

Ayesu, S. M., Amos, E. Y., Armah, L., Kansanba, R. F., & Crentsil, T. (2025). The Influence of Religion on Student Dressing in Tertiary Institutions in Ghana. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH, 11(2), 184–209. https://doi.org/10.26437/ajar.v11i2.1019