The University of Zambia has distanced itself from reports that the institution’s library has prescribed a dress code for its female students.
The poster, which appeared on social media, indicated that female students at the institution had been asked to stop visiting the library “half-naked” while urging them to dress “modestly” when using the facility.
The university’s librarian, Christine Kanyengo issued a statement claiming that the said poster was not authorised. She also offered apologies to female students in the institution which is Zambia’s leading university.
The notices around the main library in the university said female students’ skimpy outfits were distracting their male counterparts.
“It has come to our attention that some female students dress half-naked as they use the library, a situation which is disturbing the male students,” the notice read.
“We therefore advise the female students to dress modestly as you use university facilities”.
The notice upset some students.
“Why should they ask them how to dress? Let them wear what they want anytime and anywhere,” male student Anthony Kunda, adding, “if there are some male students that are not happy that is their problem”.
Female students disagreed with the directive.
“If your mission of going to the library is to study, why should you start looking at other things like a female’s legs?” third-year student Dikina Muzeya told the BBC.
“Just concentrate on your books, that’s all,” she added.
Another male student who asked not to be named described the university’s instruction as “dictatorial”.
“There is nothing wrong with the way these girls dress. In fact most male students enjoy it and why should they dictate how they dress?” he said.
In a country that is culturally conservative and the authorities declaring Zambia a Christian nation, students of the university tend to dress more fashionably.
Barbra Musonda, a student at the school of education and a devout Catholic, backed the university’s decision.
While speaking to the AFP, she said that some students go to the library without underwear or even bare-breasted.
“What happens in the library is not acceptable of a Christian nation,” said Musonda.
