University students across Uganda are raising urgent calls for the establishment of an independent committee to address sexual harassment on campuses. This comes in the wake of mounting complaints from students who allege that sexual harassment by university leadership has become a common yet underreported issue.
During a gathering at the Islamic University in Uganda, student representatives voiced concerns about the pervasiveness of sexual harassment, stating that many victims remain silent due to fear of reprisals from those in power. The students highlighted how this abuse, particularly by those in leadership positions, goes unchecked, causing deep psychological harm and severely impacting the academic performance of affected students.
“Some students are harassed but fear to speak out because these are the very people who pay for their tuition or support them in different ways, so they fear to be cut off,” said Precious Anjuna, a student leader at Uganda Christian University (UCU).
Student leaders stressed that the power dynamics involved make it difficult for victims to report their abusers, leading to a dangerous cycle of exploitation.
“Once harassed by a lecturer, she will fear to speak out due to fear of losing her friends, dignity, and confidence, so she would choose to keep quiet, hence getting depressed or performing poorly,” added Gloria Akeba, also a student leader at UCU.
The representatives emphasized the need for mental health support services, citing that prolonged harassment often leads to anxiety, depression, and other serious mental health challenges. For many students, the current mechanisms in place are insufficient to deal with the scope of the problem, leaving them vulnerable and without proper recourse.
As the issue continues to gain attention, students hope that university administrations, in partnership with government authorities, will take decisive action to protect students and ensure a safe and supportive academic environment.
Sexual harassment in Ugandan universities has long been a topic of concern, but the growing outcry from students signals a tipping point, urging reforms that many believe are long overdue.
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