By In a move to promote safer learning environments, the government has launched the Model and Benchmarking Policy on Anti-Sexual Harassment for Higher and Tertiary Education Institutions. This progressive policy aims to address the pervasive issue of sexual harassment in academic spaces and signals a strong national commitment to upholding human rights, academic integrity, and personal dignity.
The policy rollout marks a significant milestone in combating sexual harassment, particularly within universities, polytechnics, teacher’s colleges, industrial training centres, and research institutions. Designed to serve as both a guide and a standard, the policy urges all institutions to adopt and adapt it to suit their unique operational environments while aligning with core principles of justice, inclusivity, and safety.
Sexual harassment has long been a hidden challenge in educational institutions, often silencing victims through fear of retaliation and societal stigma. This new framework directly addresses these issues, fostering an environment where victims are protected, perpetrators are held accountable, and preventive measures are institutionalized.
The launch event emphasized that academic spaces—intended to nurture intellectual freedom and personal development—must no longer be tainted by fear and intimidation. The toxic culture that undermines confidence, isolates victims, and hampers innovation is now firmly in the national spotlight.
The new policy underscores the government’s zero-tolerance stance on harassment and its broader impact on academic performance, institutional credibility, and national progress. By implementing this model policy, educational institutions are expected not only to protect their students and staff but also to champion a culture of respect, equality, and accountability.
This development is not just a procedural shift it is a bold call to action. Institutions are now tasked with transforming words into impactful change, ensuring that learning spaces across the country become truly safe, inclusive, and empowering for all.
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