The University of Uyo (UniUyo) has officially launched its institutional policy against sexual harassment, signaling a decisive commitment to protect students, staff, and visitors from all forms of sexual misconduct.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the 1000-Capacity TETFund Hall on the university’s main campus, brought together dignitaries from academia, civil society, and government institutions.
Speaking during the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, made a firm declaration of intent.
“The policy of the University has declared zero tolerance for all forms of sexual molestation,” he said.
He emphasized that the new policy will act as a deterrent to potential offenders and a commitment to justice for victims, reaffirming UniUyo’s dedication to accountability, transparency, and the protection of every member of the academic community.
‘A Necessary Step Against a Lingering Evil’
The unveiling also drew attention to the wider social implications of the initiative. Mrs. Uduakabasi Ndaeyo, wife of the Vice-Chancellor, lauded the university’s leadership for addressing what she described as a deeply rooted societal problem.
“This is a necessary step in confronting a societal evil that has lingered for too long,” she said. “Such efforts will help address the scourge of sexual harassment in Nigerian institutions.”
Her remarks come amid national conversations on sexual misconduct within higher education institutions. Advocacy groups like the Gender Mobile Initiative and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have consistently pushed for tertiary institutions to adopt policies that reflect the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) of 2015, which criminalizes various forms of gender-based violence.
A Framework for Justice and Protection
In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Board of the Centre for Gender Studies, Prof. Valerie Asanwana, described the policy as a turning point in UniUyo’s pursuit of equity and excellence.
“The University’s commitment to equity, excellence, and respect for all is unwavering,” she said.
“This policy represents a significant step towards creating a campus culture where sexual misconduct is neither tolerated nor ignored.”
Prof. Asanwana explained that the policy provides clear procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving cases of harassment, emphasizing transparency and victim-centered justice.
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Luke Eyo, a member of the University’s Gender Advisory Board, gave a detailed overview of the document. He noted that the operational framework ensures justice, fairness, and institutional integrity at every stage of implementation.
Rising to a National Challenge
UniUyo’s bold move aligns with a growing national trend among Nigerian universities to institutionalize anti-harassment policies following years of public pressure and investigative reports on sexual exploitation in academia.
In recent years, institutions like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) have launched similar frameworks. Experts argue that such measures, when enforced, not only protect victims but also help rebuild public trust in higher education.
The Gender Mobile Initiative, in its 2024 assessment, urged all tertiary institutions to integrate confidential complaint systems, swift disciplinary processes, and training for staff and students to prevent harassment and ensure fair outcomes.
The Road Ahead: From Policy to Culture
While the new policy has been widely praised, observers stress that enforcement will be key. Many anti-harassment frameworks in Nigerian universities have faltered due to lack of awareness, fear of victim-blaming, or administrative inertia.
For UniUyo, however, the tone from the top suggests a real determination to act.
“We are committed to justice for victims,” Prof. Ndaeyo reaffirmed. “Accountability is not optional—it is our duty.”
If fully implemented, UniUyo’s policy could serve as a model for other institutions across Nigeria, providing a clear path toward safer campuses, greater accountability, and renewed confidence in university systems.
As the applause echoed through the TETFund Hall, one message was unmistakable: at the University of Uyo, silence will no longer be an option.