Salisu Ismail The Jigawa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding female students from sexual harassment in tertiary institutions across the state by creating a safe learning environment. The government said the move complied with the developed Model on Anti Sexual Harassment Policy highlighted by the Gender Mobile Initiative. Arewa PUNCH recalls that the policy was developed by a non governmental organisation – the ‘Gender Mobile Initiative’ with the sole purpose of ensuring a conducive teaching and learning atmosphere for female students across Nigeria.
The state Commissioner for Higher Education, Science and Technology Professor Isa Yusuf Chamo reaffirmed the vow during a one-day meeting with education officials and tertiary institution heads. Prof. Chamo who emphasised the doctrines of the policy reminded that, “The state government will not condone any form of sexual harassment in our tertiary institutions.
” He noted that Jigawa State has a relatively low incidence of sexual harassment cases but emphasised the state’s dedication to proactive prevention. “We will intensify efforts to implement and adopt the Model Anti Sexual Harassment policy in all tertiary institutions,” he assured. Prof Chamo while highlighting the importance of creating a conducive atmosphere for effective teaching and learning, stated that, “Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for students and teachers.
” The don commended the facilitators.