Top Thai university changes uniform guidelines to accommodate trans students
One of the leading universities in Thailand has issued new uniform guidelines which are more inclusive of transgender students.
The new uniform regulations at Bangkok University include permissions for “ladyboys” or “tomboys”, to dress according to their gender identity, as long as they stay within the dress code.
The move has been hailed as a step forward for transgender people in Thailand, who are accepted fairly well socially, but who still lack rights such as changing their gender on their national ID cards.
Trans people are fairly visible in Thailand, a popular destination for people seeking to have gender reassignment surgery, and where some schools have implemented “third gender” toilets for those who do not feel comfortable using male or female facilities.
“I am very glad to hear that this university lets the students choose the uniform which fits their desire and their gender,” said Nok Yollada, President of the Transgender Female Association of Thailand.
Illustrations and accompanying instructions from the university maintained that it was just attempting to ensure everyone was wearing the appropriate dress code.
Some trans students, unhappy with being made to wear uniform they did not agree with, previously took to wearing non-uniform garments to classes.
Most universities in Thailand have dress codes, and it is widely believed that the uniforms maintain order.
