Thammasat divided over student uniforms

University rector Somkit Lertpaithoon said students would be encouraged, rather than forced, to wear uniforms in lecture theatres and examinations.
The move came after students protested against the Faculty of Science’s insistence on uniforms by producing posters of two students in uniform having sex.

Somkit has ordered that the compulsory uniform rule announced by Science Faculty Assoc Prof Pakorn Sermsuk be rescinded and has set up a committee to investigate the matter.

Vice rector Prinya Thaewanaruemitkul, in charge of student affairs, has been tasked with overseeing the committee.

The university’s student council is preparing to conduct a survey on the issue before discussing the matter with the administrators.

Somkit insisted that Thammasat University students are not required to wear uniform, although it is encouraged, particularly during examinations, so that students can practice discipline needed for the workplace after they graduate.

However, Science Faculty dean Pakorn said faculty administrators had met and decided that the inculcation of order is important, as students must be disciplined when carrying out scientific experiments. The wearing of uniforms is an index of discipline, he added.

Asked if he thought the protest would spread to other faculties, Pakorn said he believed not and added that the uniform was a sign of pride and helped remind students to behave accordingly.

Pratchaya Nongnuch, president of Thammasat University student council, said the council had discussed the matter with students and lecturers and discovered there are both supporters and opponents of compulsory uniform wearing. She said the council was willing to facilitate a solution to end the rift and suggested that holding public hearing and a referendum might provide a solution acceptable to all.