The Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, has raised concerns about the high rate of sexual harassment within the university.
Speaking during the monthly Executive Management Meeting with the University’s Labour Union Executives on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Ikorodu Campus, Prof. Odusanya presented a paper titled “Preventing Sexual Violence.”
“Various studies in Nigeria show that almost half of university students have experienced sexual violence. Sexual harassment is a scourge that must be eradicated from our campus,” said Prof. Odusanya. “LASUSTECH has zero tolerance for sexual harassment in any form. We will not condone any behavior that compromises the safety and well-being of our students and staff.”
Prof. Odusanya referred to the Lagos State Criminal Law of 2021, Section 264, which deals with situations that affect academic and employment performance.
He explained that sexual harassment could include physical, verbal, or non-verbal actions, stalking, and even rape. He also pointed out that common forms of sexual harassment on campus include insensitive sexual jokes, unwelcome touching, and persistent demands for sex by lecturers or students.
He stated that the harms of sexual harassment are numerous and can lead to fear, mental health issues, shame, guilt, and even sexually transmitted infections like HIV. He emphasized that LASUSTECH is committed to creating a safe and conducive environment for all its stakeholders.
According to Prof. Odusanya, the university is committed to continuously sensitizing the university community, enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for any form of sexual harassment, conducting prompt and confidential investigations of complaints, and ensuring appropriate administrative actions and sanctions are taken. He also highlighted the importance of promoting high ethical standards within the university.
Prof. Odusanya assured that a complaint process is being established and urged everyone to help prevent, report, and abstain from sexual harassment.
“Let us work together to create a culture of respect and dignity,” he concluded.
