Gombe State University Promotes Sexual Harassment Awareness

The Centre for Gender Studies at Gombe State University, directed by Dr Aishatu Abubakar-Kumo, has initiated a campaign to raise awareness about the institution's sexual harassment policy. This campaign, which included a campus-wide awareness walk on Wednesday, aims to educate students and staff on recognizing, preventing, and reporting sexual harassment.

The policy was launched in April, and although no formal complaints have been received, informal reports of incidents have been noted. Dr Abubakar-Kumo emphasized the importance of understanding the "dos and don’ts" regarding sexual harassment and encouraged bystanders to intervene when witnessing inappropriate behavior.

The university has established around 50 desk officers across various departments to handle complaints. Copies of the policy have been distributed, and electronic versions are available online.

Students are urged to document incidents using their smartphones and to report any harassment, as the reporting mechanism is open to all members of the university community.