By Obiageli Nwankwo
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, through its Sexual Harassment and Assault Committee (SHAC), has declared an all-out war on sexual harassment and assault within its academic community. This decisive action comes in response to the growing prevalence of such incidents in higher institutions and society at large.
Speaking at a one-day symposium held at the Chief Okoli Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies Auditorium, the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, described sexual harassment as a destructive “cankerworm” that continues to plague educational institutions and society largely because victims remain silent.
Prof. Chuma-Udeh emphasized that sexual harassment affects both male and female students, and called for a change in mindset and bold action. “As a mother of many daughters, I believe strongly in training the girl child to stand up for herself and her rights,” she said.
Addressing the students directly, the Commissioner made it clear that her mission was not to plead with anyone to stop harassing others but to empower students with the knowledge of their rights and the courage to speak out.
“You deserve to be safe. You are not helpless. Your voice has power, use it. Speak up, never normalize abuse, no matter who the perpetrator is,” she urged.
“Silence only empowers abusers to continue. The world can only make you a victim if you allow it,” she added.
She stressed the importance of self-respect and self-awareness as the first steps in preventing sexual harassment. “Respect your body—it is sacred and not available to just anyone. Dress decently and flee from materialism, which has led many students to ruin,” she warned.
To effectively combat sexual harassment, the Commissioner advocated dismantling toxic systems that allow perpetrators to thrive. She called for the implementation of a nationwide sexual harassment policy across secondary and tertiary institutions, a robust support network for victims, protection for whistleblowers, and the establishment of an offenders’ registry in schools.
She emphasized the need to build institutions that uphold human dignity, where students are encouraged never to exchange their bodies for grades.
“The fight against sexual harassment and assault must be a collective effort—one that involves individuals, communities, religious institutions, and social organizations,” she concluded.
The event also featured talk shows, musical performances, and dramatic presentations
Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
