University Foundation Warns of Rising Student Harassment on Campuses

The Perfector of Sentiments (POS) Foundation has raised concerns over student cohabitation and sexual harassment in some of Ghana's public universities. The organisation says cohabitation among students can contribute to domestic conflicts and, in some cases, escalate into physical or sexual abuse.

Student Cohabitation and Harassment Plague University Campuses

The POS Foundation's Safe Campus and Sexual Harassment Prevention Project found that cohabitation among students is a major concern in some public universities. The study covered five institutions: the University of Ghana, University of Education, Winneba, University of Cape Coast, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and the University for Development Studies (UDS).

According to Jonathan Osei Owusu, founder of the POS Foundation, cohabitation was particularly prevalent at the University of Education, Winneba and the University of Cape Coast. Mr Osei Owusu said cohabitation was a common practice among students, with some even receiving money from their parents to rent rooms and live with their boyfriends.

Low Awareness of Sexual Harassment Policies

Despite having policies addressing sexual harassment, fewer than 30% of students surveyed had read them. The POS Foundation believes the low level of awareness could limit the effectiveness of the policies and prevent students from properly understanding their rights and the channels available for reporting abuse.

Gender specialist Mercy Catherine Adjabeng said the normalisation of sexual harassment in society remained a major obstacle to addressing the problem. She stressed that consent must be central to discussions around sexual harassment, saying, "If the individual has not consented to anything, it is wrong."

Addressing Sexual Harassment Requires Stronger Measures

The POS Foundation cited data from the National Development Planning Commission's 2023 report, showing that 131 cases of sexual harassment were reported to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service between 2016 and 2021. The Foundation says the figures highlight the need for stronger preventive measures and sustained education among students.

The POS Foundation is calling on university authorities to intensify education on sexual harassment policies and ensure that the policies are effectively enforced. The organisation wants students to be familiar with existing sexual harassment policies and have access to effective reporting and support mechanisms.

Conclusion

The POS Foundation's findings and warnings highlight the need for stronger preventive measures and sustained education among students. Addressing sexual harassment requires not only policies but also effective implementation, awareness, and a culture that encourages victims to report incidents without fear of stigma or retaliation.

Source: JOY