LASUSTECH Mass Communication Department Launches Student Advocacy Against Sexual Harassment

By Habeeb Ibrahim and Queen Aladegbola 

Photos By: Ajide Muminat 

The Department of Mass Communication at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has officially launched a student advocacy group aimed at combating sexual harassment.

The announcement was made by the Head of Department, Dr. Steven Anu' Adesemoye, during a program held in the department's AG 105 (Old Kakawa) hall, focused on educating students about sexual harassment and domestic violence.

This initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government’s policy, which has designated September as Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month. The campaign, themed "#SGB-NOT ON MY WATCH," seeks to increase awareness about victims' safety and reduce the occurrence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the state. The initiative aims to provide support and justice for victims while holding perpetrators accountable to deter further offenses.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Adesemoye emphasized the need for clear rules and professional conduct between students and lecturers. "Lecturers should focus on their teaching responsibilities, and any interaction outside academic consultations should be avoided. If there are any inappropriate advances, whether from lecturers or students, it should be reported immediately."

He further revealed that the department has installed CCTV cameras in office areas and established separate advocacy groups for male and female students. The department also created an exclusive email address for reporting sexual harassment cases and ensuring social support for survivors.

In a statement by the Vice Chancellor of LASUSTECH, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, praised the department's efforts and stressed that the fight against sexual harassment and violence should not end with the campaign. He emphasized that this is an ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of respect, where every member of the university community is protected, and offenders are held accountable.

Prof. Odusanya reiterated that sexual harassment and violence have no place in the institution, and he affirmed the university's dedication to creating a safe and respectful environment for all. He urged everyone to continue speaking out against abuse and to take an active role in maintaining these standards every day.

The program's anchor, Mr. Ibrahim Fatoyinbo, who is also a lecturer in the department, highlighted the department’s commitment to empowering student advocates to educate their peers on sexual harassment. He shared that students can easily contact the advocacy group through a dedicated phone number or email.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Wale Ajayi, a senior lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, emphasized the importance of speaking out against such violence, stating, “Silence is not an option. Let’s break the silence. Speaking up is a sign of strength.”

Mrs. Idowu Olayinka, a lecturer in the department, also addressed the students, urging them not to wait until they are seriously harmed before seeking help, even in cases of relationship violence. She encouraged students to voice their concerns, whether in person or in writing.

Another lecturer, Mrs. Bridget Adegboye, added, "When you find yourself in a situation where you are sexually harassed, please speak out. Even touching is a violation these days. Students, please dress decently and avoid sexually harassing your lecturers."

In an interview, Mr. Fatoyinbo discussed the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining professionalism as a lecturer. He noted that when students perceive their instructors as disciplined, they are more likely to respect boundaries. He also explained that the advocacy group would serve as a crucial link between students and the department, allowing students to report issues anonymously if they are uncomfortable approaching staff directly.

In her interview, Miss Bukola Lasisi, a lecturer in the Mass Communication department, stressed the importance of setting clear expectations at the start of each semester. "Respectful interactions are key. I make it clear what is acceptable, including office hours and deadlines. Professionalism must be maintained, and boundaries should not be crossed."

Miss Lasisi also underscored the need for ongoing education on consent and boundaries, noting that even adult students must understand that their "yes" and "no" must be respected. She called for continuous education for students and the enforcement of punishments for violators, emphasizing that institutions should not wait for state intervention to address these issues.

This advocacy program marks a proactive step by LASUSTECH’s Mass Communication Department in addressing and preventing sexual harassment and domestic violence on campus.