Viral Video of Schoolgirls Cutting Braids Sparks Debate on Hair Policies
- A viral video showing schoolgirls’ braids being cut has reignited debate over strict hair policies in South African schools
- The clip sparked fierce online reactions, with some defending school rules and others criticising the emotional impact on learners
- The incident adds to ongoing discussions about fairness, cultural bias, and the role of discipline in schools
Source: Getty Images
A TikTok video showing schoolgirls’ braids being cut has reignited debate over hair policies in South African schools. The clip, viewed over a million times, shows girls standing outside a school gate, some with bleached hair, as their long or brightly coloured braids are removed.
The student who posted the video appears distressed as she cuts her own hair. The video was reposted on X on 16 January 2026, sparking heated discussions on the platform.
See video here:
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Video sparks heated debates on social media
The incident drew strong reactions online. Some criticised the school for handling the situation so harshly, questioning how a hairstyle could affect learning. Others defended the rules, arguing that discipline teaches responsibility. The debate also highlights a long-standing issue in South Africa, where critics say school hair policies often disproportionately affect Black girls, with Afros deemed “untidy” and natural hairstyles labelled “distracting,” reinforcing outdated beauty standards.
Social Media reacts
@tshepomotau10 said:
"Search the history of hairstyle regulations in African schools. You’ll see it started in colonial mission schools where traditional African hairstyles were banned because of their connection to cultural beliefs.”
@pecson007 stated:
"They must choose whether they want to be learners or kwaito stars."
@Dont_hackAgain commented:
"I’m 100% behind this. Fancy hairstyles create distractions, peer pressure, and competition in class. Learners focus on looks instead of schoolwork, and children from poor backgrounds are disadvantaged.”
@ArtSetshedi said:
“School kids need to look like school kids. On weekends, they fill clubs, and nobody can tell the difference because we assume school kids don’t have such hairstyles.”
@Iketleng72 stated:
"Parents are to blame. Why send kids to school looking like this!"
Eastern Cape teacher goes viral for braiding students' hair
In contrast, an Eastern Cape teacher recently went viral for braiding a student’s hair in class, showing a caring approach that goes beyond academics. The TikTok video, in which he twists a pupil’s hair into neat ponytails, quickly gained hundreds of thousands of views. Many South Africans praised the teacher’s compassion, saying it reflects the spirit of Ubuntu and shows how educators can support students’ confidence and well-being. Viewers noted that moments like this highlight the important role teachers play in fostering a nurturing school environment.
Source: Getty Images
Other Briefly articles about schools
Previously, Briefly News reported that a Mthatha learner walking to school in an unusually long traditional uniform sparked debate after going viral on TikTok. Some joked the material could outfit several children, while others questioned whether the ankle-length dress was excessive. Supporters defended it as part of the Catholic school’s tradition, while critics said it was too conservative and burdensome.
In other news, Grade 12 learners welcomed first-time Grade 1 pupils by walking with them through the school grounds on their first day, creating a heartwarming scene widely shared online. Older students held hands with younger learners to help them feel safe and confident. Viewers praised the gesture as an example of mentorship, unity, and community spirit, noting it can leave a lasting positive impression.
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Source: Briefly News
