The Dress Well Attendance

Chika’s department had one rule: Dr. Nkechi hates “indecent dressing”. Jeans with holes = automatic absent, even if you sign.

Chika was broke. Her only “decent” skirt had a small tear at the back. She sewed it, prayed, and sat at the back row.

Dr. Nkechi entered, scanned the class like CCTV. “Stand up for attendance,” she said. One by one. When it got to Chika, Dr. Nkechi stopped. “Young lady, turn around.”

Chika’s heart dropped. The tear opened small when she stood. Whispers everywhere.

Dr. Nkechi sighed. “You know my rule. No marks for you today.” Chika wanted to cry. That attendance was 10%. Without it, C was impossible.

After class, Chika went to apologize. “Ma, I’m sorry. I can’t afford new clothes yet. I sewed it myself.” She showed the rough stitches.

Dr. Nkechi looked at the stitches, then at Chika. She didn’t say anything. Next class, she called Chika. “I have a daughter your size. She outgrew this skirt. Take it. But promise me - focus on your brain, not just your clothes.”

Chika cried. Not from shame, but relief. She passed the course with B.

*Moral: Some lecturers are “wahala”. Others are human. You won’t know which one you have until you show up with honesty.* 👗📚