LASUSTECH VC, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, Frowns at Prevalence of Sexual Harassment, Reiterates Zero Tolerance
Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, has expressed concern over the prevalence of sexual harassment within the university community.
Speaking at the monthly Executive Management Meeting with the University's Labour Union Executives on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Council Chamber, Ikorodu Campus, Prof. Odusanya presented a paper titled "Preventing Sexual Violence."
"Various studies in Nigeria show that almost half of University students had experienced sexual violence. Sexual harassment is a scourge that must be eradicated from our campus. LASUSTECH has zero tolerance for sexual harassment in any form," Prof. Odusanya emphasized. "We will not condone any behavior that compromises the safety and well-being of our students and staff."
Prof. Odusanya cited the Lagos State Criminal Law of 2021, Section 264, which addresses unwelcome situations that affect academic and employment performance. He defined sexual harassment as including physical, verbal, non-verbal conduct, stalking, and rape.
According to Prof. Odusanya, common forms of sexual harassment include insensitive sexual jokes, brushing of body parts in an unwelcome manner, and persistent demands for sex by lecturers/students. He attributed the causes of sexual harassment on campus to various factors, highlighting the need for collective action to prevent it.
"The harms of sexual harassment are numerous, including fear, mental health issues, shame, guilt, and STI/HIV," Prof. Odusanya noted. "LASUSTECH is committed to creating a safe and conducive environment for all stakeholders."
The VC outlined the university's policy statement on sexual harassment, which includes:
- Continuous sensitization of the university community
- Zero tolerance for sexual harassment
- Prompt and confidential investigation of complaints
- Administrative action, sanction, and remedy
- Encouragement of high ethical standards
Prof. Odusanya assured that a complaint process is being established and urged all stakeholders to prevent, report, and abstain from sexual harassment.
"Let us work together to create a culture of respect and dignity," Prof. Odusanya concluded.
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