Education Minister Givi Mikanadze said parents are responsible for ensuring their children wear mandatory school uniforms, as they agree to school regulations when enrolling them. If students attend school without a uniform, schools will apply the disciplinary procedures set out in their internal rules.
Responding to criticism over the mandatory uniform policy, Mikanadze said opposition comes from only a "small minority" and suggested it could be part of a coordinated campaign. He added that the ministry consulted more than 10,000 parents in 26 municipalities before introducing the reform, claiming the overwhelming majority supported the decision.
The minister rejected claims that the uniforms are of poor quality, saying the policy promotes social equality, school safety, and better academic performance. He also stressed that uniforms are only one part of broader education reforms, which include new textbooks and restrictions on mobile phone use during lessons.
Asked what would happen if parents refused to buy uniforms in protest, Mikanadze said schools would first use the educational and disciplinary measures provided for in their internal regulations. He emphasized that the government's priority is to keep children engaged in the learning process while continuing dialogue with parents.
