Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, has issued a strong condemnation of sexual harassment within the university, calling for collective action to combat this serious issue.
Speaking at the monthly Executive Management Meeting with the University’s Labour Union Executives on Wednesday, 28 August 2024, Prof. Odusanya addressed the urgent need to tackle sexual harassment through a comprehensive approach.
In his presentation titled “Preventing Sexual Violence,” Prof. Odusanya highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that nearly half of Nigerian university students have experienced sexual violence.
He emphasised LASUSTECH’s zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment, declaring that the university would not condone any behaviour that jeopardises the safety and well-being of its students and staff.
“Sexual harassment is a scourge that must be eradicated from our campus. We will not tolerate any form of it,” Prof. Odusanya stated.
He referenced the Lagos State Criminal Law of 2021, Section 264, which addresses unwelcome situations affecting academic and employment performance, and defined sexual harassment to include physical, verbal, and non-verbal conduct, as well as stalking and rape.
The Vice Chancellor identified common forms of sexual harassment on campus, such as insensitive sexual jokes, unwelcome physical contact, and persistent demands for sexual favours by lecturers or students.
He noted that the causes of sexual harassment are multifaceted, and stressed the importance of collective action in preventing it.
“Sexual harassment causes significant harm, including fear, mental health issues, shame, guilt, and the risk of STI/HIV,” Prof. Odusanya warned. He reaffirmed LASUSTECH’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for all stakeholders.
To address the issue, Prof. Odusanya outlined the university’s policy on sexual harassment, which includes continuous sensitisation of the university community, zero tolerance for harassment, prompt and confidential investigations of complaints, and the enforcement of administrative actions, sanctions, and remedies. He also encouraged maintaining high ethical standards within the university.
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In his closing remarks, Prof. Odusanya assured that a complaint process is being established and urged all members of the university to work together to prevent, report, and abstain from sexual harassment.
“Let us work together to create a culture of respect and dignity,” he concluded.
With this initiative, LASUSTECH aims to lead by example in creating a safer, more respectful academic environment.
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