UNN groups utilize drama, exhibitions, others to combat sexual harassment

From Felix Ikem, Nsukka

In a concerted effort to address the issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian higher institutions, the Campus Campaign Against Sexual Harassment (C-CASH) has joined forces with the Gender and Development Policy Centre (GEN-CENT) at the University of Nigeria.
Together, they organised a symposium aimed at raising awareness among staff and students on the multifaceted nature of sexual harassment, employing a combination of dramatic performances, visual exhibits, and interactive discussions.
The symposium which held on Friday at the University of Nigeria (UNN), received support from the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP) and drew participants from diverse backgrounds including the World Health Organisation (WHO), human rights activists, student bodies, lecturers, and civil society organisations.
Dr. Ikechukwu Erojikwe, Director of C-CASH and a senior lecturer at the UNN’s Department of Film and Theatre Studies, highlighted the event’s theme, “Make We Yan: A Community Engagement Event to Tackle Incidents of Sexual Harassment.”
He emphasised the campaign’s integrated approach, which includes dramatising the challenges and consequences of sexual harassment, using visual depictions, and conducting sensitisation sessions through radio broadcasts and seminars.

Erojikwe also announced plans to extend the campaign to the University of Pretoria in South Africa, following its launch at the University of Nigeria.
In a remark, Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, the acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN, reiterated the university’s stance of zero-tolerance to sexual harassment, pledging full support for initiatives aimed at eradicating such misconduct within the institution.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uju Clara Umo, Director of Academic Planning, encouraged students to utilise the university’s Sexual Harassment Policy, urging them to report any incidents without fear of victimisation.
Prof. Anthonia Achike, Director of GEN-CENT, UNN, guided participants through the provisions of the university’s Sexual Harassment Policy, stressing the availability of an anonymous reporting mechanism on the university’s website to protect those who may fear victimisation or stigma.
Dr. Ejike Orji, Chairman of the Management Committee of the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning in Nigeria (AAFP), advocated for heightened awareness through education and advocacy regarding the prevalence and impact of sexual harassment in Nigerian higher institutions.
In his keynote speech entitled “Breaking the Silence: Addressing Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Schools,” Dr. Orji called for universities to enact and enforce robust policies that prioritise students’ protection and hold perpetrators accountable.
He emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between university authorities, students, parents, teachers, and community leaders to foster a culture of reporting, support, and collective action against sexual harassment.
The symposium also featured a panel discussion with Sylvia Opinia from WHO, student representatives, Dorothy Njemanze from the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation, Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo, Artistic Director of Arojah Royal Theatre, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Asogwa, and Prof. Raymond Adibe, Deputy Director of GEN-CENT, among others.