From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government, in partnership with the Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI), has held a one-day seminar aimed at tackling sexual harassment in tertiary institutions across the state.
The event, themed “Addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment in Tertiary Institutions in Kwara State,” brought together key stakeholders, including heads of institutions, registrars, and students, to discuss strategies for curbing the scourge.
Speaking at the seminar, Dr. Mary Arinde, the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, expressed concern over the rising cases of sexual harassment in schools nationwide.
She described the issue as a major threat to the safety and dignity of students, stressing that urgent action is needed to address it.
“No effort must be spared to halt it,” Dr. Arinde said, as she urged institutional heads to adopt a campus safety initiative that will empower victims to report cases of harassment without fear.
“We have had cases of students reporting that their lecturers are harassing them sexually. Some lecturers have been dismissed. This has to stop. We have a Governor who is very passionate about education. He wants all students to graduate successfully without any harassment.”
The Commissioner also warned lecturers and non-academic staff involved in sexual harassment to desist, emphasising that institutions must enforce strict mechanisms to prevent such acts.
Dr. Arinde, revealed that the GMI, in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), is pushing for legislation to combat sexual harassment at the national level. Once the bill is passed, Kwara State plans to domesticate it to enhance local enforcement.
Dr. Feyishola Kadiri, Research and Policy Lead from GMI, noted that sexual harassment is a widespread issue requiring immediate intervention.
She highlighted the importance of partnerships with institutions and the Ministry to strengthen internal safeguards.
Participants at the seminar shared their experiences and pledged support for government policies aimed at creating safer, more respectful learning environments.
