Kaduna Polytechnic has strengthened its campaign to stop sexual harassment, aiming to create a safer and more respectful campus for students and staff. The institution has made awareness and sensitization programmes a core part of its policy to ensure that everyone understands what sexual harassment means and the serious consequences of engaging in it.
Dr. Ismail Anchau, Director of the Policy and Transparency Division, explained that these sessions are now a mandatory part of orientation for all new students across the polytechnic’s colleges. In just two days, several colleges successfully conducted these training sessions, reaching a wide audience.
The campaign is part of a larger initiative supported by the Empowering Women for Excellence Initiative (EWEI). In 2024, EWEI organized training for members of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics and the National Union of Road Transport Workers to address harassment in public spaces across Kaduna State.
Dr. Anchau emphasized that the institution does not take reported cases lightly. Once a report is received, a full investigation is launched. If there is enough evidence, the case is handed to the registrar and disciplinary committee. Offenders risk dismissal, depending on the severity of the case.
Thanks to consistent sensitization, reports of harassment have gone down, and both students and staff now better understand what behavior is unacceptable. The institution also aims to prevent staff from unintentionally crossing boundaries by educating them on the issue.
EWEI’s Programme Officer, Abdulkareem Yusuf Ovanigbe, expressed confidence in the institution’s commitment. He highlighted that the “We for Them” project, which includes seminars on harassment in public spaces, aligns well with Kaduna Polytechnic’s efforts.
He added that the sensitization drive now covers all colleges within the polytechnic, including the College of Education, College of Science and Technology, College of Technical and Business Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Environmental Sciences, and College of Agricultural Sciences.
Students are encouraged to report any form of harassment without fear. The institution assures them of protection and promises a learning environment built on respect and accountability.
