Wits Student Shocked After Being Told Her Natural Afro Was a Distraction During Exam

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A University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) student was left shocked and frustrated after being told that her natural afro hairstyle was a distraction to other students during an exam. The incident, which occurred at an exam venue on campus, has sparked widespread reactions from netizens, many of whom are expressing disbelief and support for the student.

In a viral TikTok video, @luyanda_mapho, the student involved, explained how she had chosen to wear her hair loose, without tying it, as she headed to an exam venue. However, upon arrival, she was told by an authority figure that her afro was “destructive” because it would distract fellow students. The reasoning given was that her hairstyle would draw the attention of other students, making it harder for them to concentrate on their exams. Taken aback, Luyanda sought clarification, asking, “I’m genuinely asking so that I never repeat again.”

Watch the video below:

The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 60,000 views, with many social media users expressing disbelief and outrage over the situation. Some were vocal in their support for the student, pointing out that this was a clear case of discrimination based on her Black identity and the texture of her hair. “In this 2024? At WITS? No ways!!!” said one user, while another commented, “Sue mtase… Why are they discriminating your natural hair??? It’s that deep shem.”

Adding to the conversation, @Dr.CMM, Ph.D shared a personal experience: “Girrrl! I was once bullied by a Dean, two Academic Leaders, and one Admin (none Black), over my hairstyle, which had curls resembling 4b hair. My greatest regret was not defending myself effectively.” This response highlighted how the issue of natural hair discrimination is not isolated but part of a broader pattern that Black students continue to face in academic environments, where natural hair is often viewed as “unprofessional” or “distracting.”

The incident underscores ongoing tensions surrounding natural hair in South Africa, particularly in educational institutions. Black students frequently face challenges when it comes to embracing their natural hairstyles, encountering discriminatory rules and attitudes that privilege Eurocentric beauty standards over natural Black features. The Wits student’s experience is just the latest example of how the policing of Black hair continues to manifest in formal and academic spaces.