We wish to refer to the National Shoora Council’s letter dated 25th May 2025 on the above subject, a copy of which is annexed herewith for your ready reference.
The National Shoora Council (NSC) respectfully draws your kind attention to the need to accommodate the Islamic dress code within the standard nursing uniform for Muslim female students enrolled in State Universities.
Nursing uniforms in Sri Lanka have long represented professionalism, institutional identity, and cultural inclusivity. Historically, Muslim nurses have been permitted to wear uniforms in conformity with Islamic modesty standards — including long sleeves and the slacks — without compromising professionalism or safety standards.
In this regard, it is noteworthy that several countries, including the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth nations, have officially adopted inclusive nursing uniform policies. The UK National Health Service (NHS), for instance, allows Muslim nurses to wear hijabs and long-sleeved undershirts made from infection-control compliant materials, ensuring both religious accommodation and adherence to international clinical hygiene standards. Such practices affirm that faith-based attire can coexist with professional requirements without difficulty.
However, it has come to our attention that this accommodation is presently being overlooked in certain State University nursing faculties, causing distress among Muslim students and their families. We therefore kindly request that a clear directive be issued allowing Muslim female nursing students to wear the standard nursing uniform with the necessary modifications to comply with Islamic guidelines — consistent with recognized international best practices and Article 10 and Article 14 (1) of the Constitution.
We earnestly urge your kind and immediate consideration to ensure that Muslim nursing students are not compelled to compromise their faith in the pursuit of education. The National Shoora Council remains ready to provide any assistance necessary to implement this accommodation in a manner that is respectful, practical, and aligned with both national and international professional standards.
Thank you for your kind attention.
