University uniforms challenge – And academic freedom
Freedom
“The reason I entered Thammasat University was because of its spirit and well-known slogan ‘Thammasat is free every inch’ [of its space],” Aum told University World News.
She was referring to Thammasat’s reputation as the ‘freest’ of all Thai universities, allowing students to think and act as they like.
Liberal university?
The posters were widely regarded as overstepping the mark in Thailand’s conservative society. But Thai commentators have also questioned whether Thammasat is abandoning its democratic roots, broadening the debate beyond student attire.
Serious consequences
But the debate has also taken a sinister turn, as it divided conservatives and liberals in Thai society, reaching beyond the confines of universities.