Srinagar: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Srinagar observed Sexual Harassment Prevention Week with a series of awareness and sensitisation activities aimed at reinforcing a safe, respectful and dignified environment for learning and work.
As part of the observance, a lecture and an awareness programme were conducted for officers, coordinators, academic counsellors and staff members of the Regional Centre, focusing on prevention, awareness and institutional commitment to eliminating sexual harassment in educational and workplace settings.
Dr. A.H. Rizvi, Regional Director in his welcome address underscored the importance of sexual harassment prevention as a cornerstone of institutional ethics and human dignity. He highlighted the institution’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment through comprehensive policies, including the Prevention of Sexual Harassment framework in educational institutions.
Prof. Aamina Parveen, Head, Department of Education, University of Kashmir, delivered the keynote address.
Dr Nusrat, Bilquees Ara and Shuffali Manzoor also spoke on the occasion. The speakers focused on the broader educational and societal dimensions of gender equity and harassment prevention, covering legal and ethical aspects of sexual harassment, the importance of gender sensitisation in educational curricula, practical strategies to recognise, respond to and prevent incidents, and the need to empower students and staff to support one another and uphold dignity
The programme aimed to enhance awareness of rights and responsibilities, encourage collective participation in fostering respectful behaviour, and clarify procedures for lodging complaints and seeking assistance.
