The Ecole du Nord will probably join all the schools where uniform is compulsory next year. While it had always followed the trend of the first French private school, Lycée Labourdonnais, it intends to distinguish itself by adopting uniform. The schools where pupils wear no uniform are becoming increasingly rare in Mauritius ? just as in the whole world. However, debate is still rife abroad ? particularly in France ? about its relevance and importance for the main people concerned, the children.

Uniform was adopted in order to lessen difference between the various social classes or religions. With a single type of clothing, all pupils are at the same level and no one can boast about having the latest branded T-shirt or jeans. It should be noted that the main concern when the uniform was introduced was of a democratic nature ? towards more social justice.

<B>Overlooking social differences</B>

However, those against the uniform are of the opinion that it is not worth erasing social differences only through outward appearance. Dressing according to one?s tastes and means is considered by some as a way of learning to live together while overlooking these differences. In addition it tends to deny one?s identity.

But it may not be the sole motivation for introducing the wearing of uniform at school. It can be seen as a way of establishing more discipline. Everyone needs to wear a spotless uniform and that forces children to abide by strict rules. It is a way of teaching them the respect for authority and the need to follow a number of rules to live in society.

The building of a school identity can also be one reason for enouraging the wearing of the uniform.

<B>Participation of teachers and pupils </B>

While almost all pupils have had to abide by the dress code implemented years ago, pedagogues point at the necessity to have the ?approval of teachers for the adoption of the uniform?. It will make it easier for pupils to accept if teachers have agreed to it, as they will have the right arguments to convince them. In order to prevent problems, it would also be important that pupils take part to some extent in the choice of colours and cut of their new uniform.

However, obviously enough and in view of the situation in schools, the uniform is far from being the ultimate solution to indiscipline. Such problems do not depend on the way pupils are dressed but rather on the educational approach and pedagogy of teachers.