By Abubakar Rabilu Gombe
Gombe State University has introduced a Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy aimed at protecting students and staff while promoting a safe, respectful, and merit-driven academic environment.
The policy was unveiled at a ceremony attended by university management, civil society organisations, gender advocates, and government representatives.
The event highlighted growing concerns over sexual harassment in higher institutions and the need for clear preventive and accountability measures.
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Speaking at the event, the Director of the Centre for Gender Studies, Professor Aishatu Abubakar Kumo, said the policy provides clear guidelines for identifying offences, reporting incidents, and sanctioning offenders.
She explained that sexual harassment under the policy includes inappropriate remarks, unwanted physical contact, suggestive gestures, and offensive digital communication.
Professor Kumo stressed that the university would not tolerate any form of misconduct capable of undermining academic integrity or campus safety.
She added that the policy is designed to promote discipline, mutual respect, and transparency in relationships between staff and students.
“Academic success must be based on merit, not the abuse of power or position,” she stated.
The policy also introduces confidential reporting channels, allowing victims and witnesses to report incidents without fear of intimidation or retaliation.
An independent committee has been established to investigate complaints and recommend appropriate sanctions, while the university warned against false allegations, noting that all reports will be carefully examined.
A representative of Gender Mobile Initiative, Fatima Abdullahi, commended the university for the initiative, describing it as a major step toward ensuring accountability and safety in educational institutions.
She noted that the policy includes victim support mechanisms, confidentiality safeguards, and strict penalties for offenders.
She also introduced the Campus Pal App, a digital platform designed to enable students report cases easily and access support services promptly.
Representatives from the Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP, and NSCDC also praised the initiative, calling for sustained collaboration to address the issue effectively.
Stakeholders further urged increased awareness, stronger reporting systems, and impartial enforcement of sanctions.
The event ended with a renewed commitment from all parties to ensure effective implementation of the policy and foster a campus environment built on safety, dignity, and the rule of law.
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