The Jigawa State government has said that it is committed to combating sexual harassment within its tertiary institutions.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Professor Isa Yusuf Chamo, disclosed during a meeting with officials from the state’s educational institutions.
Prof. Chamo said the state government’s stance is aimed at creating safer learning spaces for female students in the schools.
The Commissioner said, “The state will not tolerate any form of sexual harassment in our institutions.” He emphasized that, while Jigawa has reported relatively few harassment cases, it remains committed to proactive prevention and strict enforcement.
This comes as the state adopts the Model Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy, developed by the Gender Mobile Initiative, which aims to establish a protective framework in educational settings across Nigeria.
The new policy fosters a supportive atmosphere for students, allowing them to focus on their studies without fear.
Professor Chamo noted that implementing this policy would reassure students and improve their confidence and academic performance. “When students feel secure, they’re better able to reach their potential,” he added.
He announced plans to establish a dedicated committee to monitor the policy’s application across institutions and to ensure compliance and accountability.
He explained that workshops and seminars would be organised to inform students, staff, and faculty about the policy and their roles in upholding it.
Expressing gratitude for the Gender Mobile Initiative’s contributions, Permanent Secretary Alhaji Lawan Muhammad Haruna echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, emphasizing that this initiative positions Jigawa as a model of proactive change for other states in Nigeria.
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