The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) recently hosted an essential in-house sensitization campaign against sexual harassment, organized by Alliances for Africa (AfA) in collaboration with the Institution of Women, Gender and Development Studies (IWOGDS). This event marks a significant initiative by the university’s administration, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nnenna Otti and other notable representatives, to actively combat the issue of sexual harassment within the institution. During the campaign, a collective commitment was established among university officials and students to strengthen efforts aimed at reducing incidents of harassment, showcasing the university’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive academic environment.
Prof. Otti, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Emmanuel Esenwah, highlighted several contributing factors leading to sexual harassment, such as indecent dressing and a lackadaisical attitude toward academic commitments. Despite the known challenges, the university maintains a strict policy of zero tolerance for indecent behaviors, emphasizing the institution’s proactive stance in addressing this societal ill. Otti’s assurances about implementing more stringent measures reflect a conscious effort to protect students and staff while fostering a culture of respect and accountability within the university community.
As part of the campaign, IWOGDS Director Prof. Edna Matthew-Njoku and Students’ Union Government President Comrade Stanley Nwosu also expressed their commitment to raising awareness and encouraging students to report incidents of sexual harassment. Their advocacy aims to empower students by assuring them that adequate protection and justice mechanisms will be in place. The presence of key stakeholders like these demonstrates the seriousness with which the university approaches issues of sexual harassment, creating an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to speak out against misconduct.
Ms. Blessing Duru, the AfA Programme Director, conveyed the urgency of addressing sexual harassment, which disproportionately affects academic progression in Nigerian tertiary institutions, including FUTO. Duru delineated the harmful effects of inaction on student learning and staff productivity. She urged the university management and other relevant bodies to strengthen existing policies, set up support systems, and enforce mechanisms aimed at ensuring a safer academic setting. Such recommendations highlight the necessity of a multi-faceted approach involving all stakeholders in the university to build a more secure educational environment.
The turnout for the campaign was impressive, with over 1,000 students and staff attending, which underscores a strong collective interest in addressing the issues of sexual harassment on campus. Such a large participation indicates a community readiness to engage in serious discussions about this topic while fostering a culture that is intolerant of harassment. This extensive involvement suggests an awareness of the ongoing challenges and a communal desire to create solutions for a safer academic experience.
In conclusion, the sensitization campaign at FUTO is a critical step towards tackling sexual harassment in educational settings. Through collaborative efforts among university authorities, student bodies, and external organizations like Alliances for Africa, a pathway for action and change has been initiated. By focusing on policy reform, awareness campaigns, and providing support systems, the FUTO community aims to build a safe, respectful, and conducive environment for academic excellence and personal growth, thus paving the way for a more enlightened and progressive academic atmosphere.
