Archived Bulletins

Dressing for Patriotism and Pride

By David Agbenyega
Class of 2009

Ashesi University’s liberal arts core program, exceptional faculty, technological facilities and academically outstanding graduates have won the institution great admiration and respect. However, one aspect of this vibrant college that rarely gets much attention is the social cohesion and love for country that is imbibed in students. One of the ways this can be seen is through their choice of clothing.

Since the launch of the National Friday Wear Initiative by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ashesi students have been expressing their identities and citizenship through African textiles and styles. The National Friday Wear Program, meant to promote made-in-Ghana goods and help revitalize the local textiles industry, has been gradually gaining ground in workplaces throughout Ghana.  Ashesi students have taken it upon themselves to establish this tradition at the University as well. In a time when Western values and culture are being adopted by Ghanaian youth throughout the country, donning traditional clothes instills a sense of national pride.

African clothes are uniquely fitted and customized.  They allow the owner the freedom to choose from a variety of colors, styles and patterns that hold different meanings for different occasions.  African clothes are made individually by skilled tailors and seamstresses.  The fabrics are designed and dyed locally at large factories or in small family run shops.  Some types of cloth are woven by hand.  The result is that by wearing local clothes students are helping to support an industry that employs thousands of skilled artisans throughout the country.

Citizenship is one of the three core values that guide the varsity’s scholars as they integrate academic excellence with social responsibility.  The students of Ashesi have found a way to give back to the community and look good.

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