Enugu State Government Commits to Eradicating Sex-for-Grade Abuse in Tertiary Institutions

The Enugu State government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating the sex-for-grade menace in its tertiary institutions. During a crucial meeting on September 25, 2024, state officials warned that any offender, regardless of their position, would face severe consequences.

The meeting, which brought together knowledge management stakeholders and leaders from tertiary education institutions, focused on the "state-level adoption of the model anti-sexual harassment policy in Enugu State." It was convened by the state Ministry of Education.

In a passionate address, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government, emphasized that Governor Peter Mbah is resolutely determined to tackle this issue. "His Excellency is very determined about this, and when the Hon. Commissioner informed me that we've progressed to policy development, I was thrilled," he stated.

Prof. Onyia assured that the state is prepared to hold individuals accountable. Academics found guilty of harassing students or soliciting sexual favors for grades will be swiftly prosecuted. "Once the information is processed, those individuals will face immediate legal action," he affirmed.

The state plans to collaborate with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to reinforce its zero-tolerance policy towards sexual misconduct. Prof. Onyia mentioned that several sting operations have already been conducted at various institutions to catch offenders.

"This policy establishes the framework for our vision as a state, and I urge everyone to collaborate in this endeavor," he said, emphasizing that the initiative will also extend to secondary schools. "Our sting operations will capture offenders regardless of their age."

In his remarks, state Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, outlined the policy's formulation process, noting that it results from extensive collaborative research and peer review. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to creating safe campuses, fostering an inclusive and respectful academic environment free from harassment.

"This initiative is part of His Excellency, Barr. Peter Mbah's mandate for ethical leadership in Enugu State," Prof. Mbah stated, adding that the policy will begin with tertiary education and expand to the basic education system.

Dr. Ernest Ogezi, Learning Measurement and Evaluation Manager at the Gender Mobile Initiative, commended Enugu for setting a standard with its state-level anti-sexual harassment policy. He explained that the policy will be tailored to each institution, beginning with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the Campus Safety Initiative (CSI), based on four foundational pillars.

In an interview, Kennedy Ebuhotemen, Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for ICPC in Enugu and Ebonyi states, emphasized the commission's commitment to tackling the alarming trend of sexual harassment. "There will be no sacred cows," he declared, reinforcing the need for comprehensive policies to guide victims in responding to harassment.

The meeting, attended by representatives from all public and private schools in the state, marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of students in Enugu's educational institutions.