Shanghai Normal University said yesterday that it would insist on its regulation that bans miniskirts and other "inappropriate" clothes among its female teachers, though some people deem the regulation a restriction of freedom and have demanded amendments, the Oriental Morning Post reported today.

More than 270 female teachers in the university have signed a proposal for better classroom etiquette, stating that they will abide by the regulation concerning "appropriate" clothing, Qian Jianping, a director from the Women's Commission in the university said to the newspaper. About 60 male teachers also signed the proposal.

"It is important to respect the decisions to provide better education. We'll persist on the ban of improper clothing," said Xiang Jiaxiang, a vice chancellor of the university. "We only restrict clothing in classrooms, teachers can dress however they want after school."

"The ban on miniskirts in classrooms is not equal to the restriction of personal freedoms," said Zhang Tianle, a professor of sociology from Fudan University. "Every occupation has its own distinctive feature, which may pose specific requirements for those who do the job."

As a part of the campaign launched in mid-April to improve teachers' etiquette in classrooms, the regulation also banned halter tops, sandals and all sleeveless shirts. The campaign will extend the ban to students as well. It will also prohibit students napping and the use of mobile phones in classrooms, the report said.

Many students expressed their discontent with the regulation and preferred their teachers in more fashionable attire, while one teacher advocating the campaign said: "Halter tops and miniskirts may reflect the vitality of young female teachers. But, knowledge, etiquette and personality are more important factors."

(Shanghai Daily May 10, 2006)