Writing By Khadijah Aliyu ; Editing By Godwin Duru
The Centre for Gender Studies (CGS), Bayero University Kano, has restated its commitment to creating safe spaces for students and tackling sexual harassment across Nigerian universities.
Director of the Centre , Dr. Safiya Nuhu, gave the assurance during a five-day workshop on sexual trauma counseling organized by CGS BUK in collaboration with Alliances For Africa (AFA).
She explained that Bayero University operates a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and has introduced measures such as the “Confidential Corner,” to stand out as a model for replication protecting students and providing safe places.
Dr. Nuhu noted that the training would help strengthen institutions to deliver trauma-related counselling services.
“The training will enhance our ability to provide safe spaces for our students and address sexual harassment in our universities.”
On her part, the Executive Director of AFA, Mrs. Iheoma Obibi, said the workshop is part of a 36-month programme across twelve Nigerian universities, aimed at helping counsellors understand trauma counselling which is different from conventional guidance counselling in order to better support survivors of harassment.
She explained that the initiative also encourages knowledge-sharing, allowing universities with effective systems to support others in achieving similar results.
Similarly, BUK counsellor at the CGS Confidential Corner, Zahrau Umar, described the unit as a safe haven for students, lecturers, and staff to report cases without intimidation.
The event tagged: Five day Training for University Counsellors on Sexual Trauma Counseling witnessed large turn out of directors of gender units and counsellors across twelve Nigerian universities.
COV/Khadijah Aliyu
