In response to the alarming rise of sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions, Education Commissioners from across the country will meet with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja to develop strategies to combat this issue. The meeting, scheduled for July 9, is organized by the ICPC in collaboration with Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI).

Ms. Omowumi Ogunrotimi, Executive Director of GMI, emphasized that the focus of the meeting would be on preventive measures rather than punitive actions. “Our engagement will prioritize the establishment of preventive frameworks to address the root causes of sexual harassment,” she explained.

The meeting will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including development partners, education regulators, student groups, and civil society organizations. These groups will work together to promote the adoption and implementation of sexual harassment prevention frameworks at the state level.

“This engagement is crucial as it aims to create a learning environment where all students and educators can pursue their goals without fear and intimidation,” Ogunrotimi stated. “Comprehensive policies and effective prevention strategies are essential to achieving this.”

The initiative is expected to tackle a significant concern that undermines the safety, dignity, and academic integrity of both victims and institutions. By focusing on prevention, the stakeholders hope to foster a culture of respect and safety in educational environments.

In addition to discussing preventive measures, the engagement will also aim to commit stakeholders to the implementation of these frameworks across the country, ensuring a unified approach to eradicating sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions.