Jamshoro, The University of Sindh, in collaboration with its Anti-harassment Cell, Institute of Gender Studies, and Institute of Biochemistry, recently hosted a seminar titled “Protection against Harassment at the Workplace” aimed at addressing and mitigating harassment issues within its campuses. This event underscored the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful educational environment, particularly for its large female student population.
According to University of Sindh, the seminar was conducted in the Hall of Biochemistry and featured keynotes from several distinguished speakers, including the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Muhammad Siddiq Kalhoro. He highlighted the significant female representation among the student body and faculty, which he attributed to the cultural and religious values prevalent in Sindh that foster respect towards women. Dr. Kalhoro emphasized that the cultural practices and teachings of Islam within the region promote respectful terminology and interactions, replacing more casual or potentially disrespectful addressals used in other cultures.
The Vice Chancellor also discussed the effectiveness of the university’s anti-harassment measures, noting that while incidents do occur, they are dealt with severely under the law. He cited the enhancements made to the Anti-Harassment Act of 2010, which have strengthened the university’s ability to handle such cases. Additional speakers, including Regional Head of the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat Sindh Sabiqa Shah and Assistant Registrar Ufifa Samu, stressed the importance of awareness and proactive institutional roles in preventing harassment, ensuring that students and staff understand their rights and the mechanisms available for reporting grievances.
The seminar not only provided a platform for discussing the legal and social aspects of harassment but also highlighted the proactive steps taken by the University of Sindh to foster an environment where educational pursuits are not hindered by fear or discrimination. The event concluded with a call for ongoing vigilance and education to continue improving the university’s response to and prevention of harassment.