FUNAAB Launches TETFund-Sponsored Project To Combat Sexual Harassment In Tertiary Institutions

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has launched the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund)-sponsored Stop Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Institutions (SHITI) Project, a research initiative aimed at addressing sexual harassment in higher institutions through evidence-based research, stakeholder engagement, digital innovation and policy advocacy.

The project was officially launched on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the university and is designed to develop practical solutions for preventing sexual harassment and promoting safer learning environments in tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the launch, the Vice-Chancellor of FUNAAB, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, described sexual harassment as a global challenge that requires collective responsibility and proactive measures.

Represented by the Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Professor Oluwagbemiga Adeleye, the Vice-Chancellor noted that although sexual harassment may not be widespread in FUNAAB compared to some institutions, it remains an issue that must never be ignored.

He stressed that sexual harassment affects both men and women and urged members of the university community to uphold ethical conduct, mutual respect and accountability.

Professor Kehinde commended the multidisciplinary research team behind the initiative, expressing confidence that the project would strengthen institutional policies and contribute to efforts aimed at preventing sexual harassment in tertiary institutions.

Earlier, the Director of the Institute of Communication and General Studies (ICGNS) and Principal Investigator of the project, Professor Remi Aduradola, appreciated the university management, TETFund, development partners and members of the research team for their support towards the successful commencement of the project.

Professor Aduradola described sexual harassment as a growing societal challenge affecting different levels of education and explained that the SHITI Project seeks to provide evidence-based solutions through research, collaboration and technological innovation.

She revealed that the project originated from a research proposal development training held in 2021, with years of collaboration and planning eventually leading to the successful award of the TETFund research grant.

She encouraged researchers to embrace collaboration as a means of achieving impactful research outcomes and driving innovation.

The Director of Administration and Supply, Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Idowu Kehinde, commended FUNAAB and the research team for initiating the intervention.

She described sexual harassment as a violation of human dignity that affects academic excellence and students’ wellbeing, stressing that no student should experience harassment while pursuing education.

Mrs. Kehinde disclosed that the Ogun State Government has developed a Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) Policy for tertiary institutions, which is awaiting approval by the Governor.

She added that the ministry continues to coordinate Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Referral Centres across the state to provide medical, psychosocial and legal support for survivors.

Representing the Ogun State Police Command, the Divisional Police Officer of FUNAAB/Harmony Police Station, SP Michael Olajide, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to combating sexual harassment and gender-based violence.

He encouraged victims to report cases promptly and assured stakeholders of continued collaboration with tertiary institutions to promote justice and accountability.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the SHITI Project by Professor Aduradola, who outlined the project’s objectives, methodology, expected outcomes and responsibilities of stakeholders.

Participants also engaged in discussions on improving institutional policies, strengthening reporting mechanisms and enhancing collaboration among relevant organisations.

The event was attended by representatives of government agencies, security organisations, partner institutions, FUNAAB staff and students, members of the research team and other stakeholders.

The SHITI Project represents FUNAAB’s commitment to promoting safe, inclusive and accountable learning environments in line with global efforts to advance quality education and institutional responsibility.