AFRI-CIRD Proposes Ethical Ways for Addressing Sexual Harassment in Varsities, Kicks Against Monetary Rewards
A Kano-based think-tank, the African Center for Innovative Research and Development (AFRI-CIRD) has called for the adoption of ethical and viable approaches towards addressing the issue of sexual harassment of female students in Nigerian universities.
The organization has equally kicked against the use of monetary rewards as a means for motivating female students to report sexual assaults.
According to a statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Mohammed Bello, this action, can undermine and create setback to the smooth learning and teaching processes in the university.
Mr. Bello was reacting to the proposal made by a faculty member of the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano (MAAUN), Dr. Musa Abdullahi Sufi who promised to provide monetary rewards for any female student that report sexual harassment by any lecturer.
The statement reads in full below:
The African Center for Innovative Research and Development (AFRI-CIRD) wishes to express its profound concern over the recent proposition by Dr. Musa Abdullahi Sufi of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano (MAAUN), which offer a sum of one million Naira (N1,000,000) reward to any female students who report sexual harassment cases with full evidence against any lecturer, and a further seven million Naira (N7,000,000) to a female who also report sexual assaults with full evidence against any proprietor of the university.
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While acknowledging the critical importance of addressing sexual misconduct, AFRI-CIRD believes that the proposed financial incentive is not only misguided but also potentially detrimental to the academic integrity we hold dear.
AFRI-CIRD cautions that the lure of financial gain may inadvertently encourage false allegations, putting the reputations of educators at risk and undermining the trust essential to the student-teacher relationship. The proposed scheme could lead to a reluctance among faculty to engage in one-on-one mentorship, thereby impeding the very essence of academic discourse and support.
We urge a return to due process, emphasizing the necessity of thorough investigations and fair hearings to protect all parties involved. The current proposal sidesteps these established protocols, risking the principles of justice and fairness that should anchor our academic institutions.
AFRI-CIRD implores the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to publicly denounce this well-intentioned but flawed initiative. We advocate for the cultivation of an environment rooted in mutual respect and trust, rather than one marred by suspicion and fear.
In lieu of financial incentives, AFRI-CIRD encourages the development of comprehensive support systems for victims, including confidential reporting mechanisms, counseling services, and clear procedural guidelines. We invite ASUU and university administrations to collaborate on these efforts, ensuring a balanced approach that safeguards all members of the academic community.
AFRI-CIRD stands firm in its commitment to creating a safe and equitable educational atmosphere. We call upon Dr. Sufi to retract his statement and join us in advocating for measures that reinforce a secure and just learning environment for everyone.
