Abstract:
The performance and adherence of Ghanaian customs and traditions are cherished by
society. The Dipo Rite among the Krobos is one such cherished traditions conducted
to prepare adolescent girls into womanhood. The study sought to explore modified
designs of Dipo costumes for the contemporary Ghanaian society. A descriptive
survey was adopted for the study. Qualitative and quantitative techniques were
adopted and sample size of 68 (organisers) and 60 (community and other
stakeholders) were selected for the study. Data were collected through the use of
questionnaires and interviews. The study found that Dipo was meant to prepare girls
into womanhood, promote chastity before marriage but this has not achieved its
intended purposes since teenage pregnancy continues to rise despite the initiation.
Some costumes used for the rite includes red cloths (Sabue), headgear, necklace,
wristbands, anklets, wristlets, beads and the like. It was realized that most of the
respondents were of the view that costumes used for the rite ought to be modified
since it exposes parts of girls to the public which is against fundamental human rights.
It is expected that a careful review of the costumes used for the rites are done by the
traditional leaders of Krobo incharge of Dipo.
Description:
A Dissertation in the Department of Fashion and Textiles, Faculty of Technical
Education, submitted to the School of Graduate Studies, University of
Education, Winneba in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of
Master of Technology (Fashion and Textiles) degree.
JULY, 2016