Over 80% of the respondents of a poll said uniforms should be introduced in schools in order to reduce the social differences between students and to contribute to maintaining discipline at school. The poll results were presented at the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research on May 14, IPN reports.

“We are satisfied with the poll results as we aimed to conduct a transparent and voluntary study,” said Minister Monica Babuc. The questionnaire was proposed on paper and in an electronic form. Almost 300,000 persons took part in this exercise, with 96% of these filling out the questionnaire on paper.

Almost 40% of those polled said the introduction of school uniforms is very important, while 36.7% said it is important. “78.4% of the respondents consider the school uniform is a distinct sign of the school and this would benefit the students as they will feel equal and will become more disciplined, while 16.8% said the school uniforms depersonalize the students,” noted Monica Babuc.

According to the minister, it was estimated that the price of uniforms would not exceed the sum spent by parents on school clothing. Moreover, the children from socially deprived families will receive financial assistance for purchasing the uniform. “We conducted a study showing that we have 17,425 students who could benefit from 18 million lei for buying uniforms. I don’t think this is impossible. We identified state budget funds intended for the education system that haven’t been used and can thus distribute this money for uniforms,” stated Monica Babuc.

To introduce the school uniform, the subject should be first discussed in the Government and Parliament and with civil society, law specialists and the local public authorities.

55% of the respondents of the poll were students aged between 7 and 18.