Nyakasura is Africa’s only school where boys wear skirts. The culture started when the school was founded in 1926 by Lieutenant-Commander Ernest William Eborhard Calwell, a Scottish missionary. The boys are so comfortable in the skirts you would think they don’t wear trousers at all.
The idea of wearing skirts is meant to buld confidence among boys.
“The attire builds confidence in boys hence brings out strong leaders; therefore, it has a unique identity,” the principal told Rwanda-based publisher Afrimax English.
The principal defended the uniform by claiming that it is not a skirt as some have called it, but rather kilts, which are a traditional attire worn by men in the Scottish Highlands.
Kilts are the only national costume in the British Isles that is worn on a regular basis rather than just for special occasions.
Highland dress is also worn by Scottish regiments in the British army, and kilts have been worn in battle, including during World War II.
Despite being mocked by the community, he claims that the students adore their uniforms because they make them stand out.
Because Nyakasura is a mixed school, it would be difficult for a first-time visitor to distinguish between boys and girls.
“Every student considers the kilt a normal attire, and nothing is funny anymore. The uniform collection includes; a kilt, belt, knee-socks and a cuff known as a kilt hose. In addition, the boys wear a red cloth on their legs known as the leg warmers,” he said.
Boys’ kilts also have small bags at the front for carrying essentials like pens and handkerchiefs.
The students stated that the kilt is part of the school culture and that they are at ease wearing it.
The boys stated that they are constantly insulted and chastised by students from other schools for wearing girls’ uniforms, but they see nothing wrong with it.
Some schools may emulate this culture…that’s if the boys are comfortable in dresses.
Here are the photos:
