The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has stepped up its campaign against sexual harassment and gender-based violence (GBV) with a capacity-building workshop aimed at empowering key stakeholders within the university community.
Organised by the Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA) in collaboration with the Student Representative Council (SRC) and the Perfector of Sentiment (POS) Foundation, and supported by Amplify Change, the workshop convened faculty members, students, health professionals, university security personnel, and administrators to deepen their understanding of GBV and improve institutional response strategies.
At the heart of the conversation was a commitment to systemic change and proactive prevention, rather than reactive measures.
Speaking at the event, Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, Director of Student Affairs, emphasised that curbing sexual misconduct was not only about punishment but also about building a culture grounded in respect, empathy, and accountability.
“We must cultivate a campus culture where consent, dignity, and respectful behaviour are not only expected but enforced,” she stated, urging students to trust and utilise the university’s confidential reporting mechanisms.
The university’s existing framework to deal with GBV was also placed in focus. Mrs. Victoria De-Graft Adjei, Deputy Registrar and Head of the KNUST Counselling Centre, detailed policies and tools already in place, including the Sexual Harassment Policy, Gender Policy, and the KNUST e-Counselling App, which allows for anonymous and confidential reporting of incidents.
Dr. Frances Dufie Azumah, a senior lecturer from the Department of Sociology and Social Work, reminded participants that while structural policies were essential, behaviour change and awareness were equally critical. She cautioned against the abuse of power and privilege, adding, “We want a safe space for all, regardless of gender or status.”
One of the most striking observations came from Mr. Jonathan Osei Owusu, Executive Director of the POS Foundation, who applauded KNUST’s tangible demonstration of gender inclusivity in leadership. However, he warned that ignorance of what constitutes sexual harassment remained a gap to be filled.
“Many students still don’t understand the scope of sexual harassment—some trivialise it, others don’t even know they’re experiencing it. Awareness must be the first line of defence,” he said.
The workshop marks a shift in KNUST’s approach—from merely managing complaints to preventing abuse through education, institutional transparency, and empowerment of the university community.
As universities across Ghana grapple with similar challenges, KNUST’s efforts signal what could become a model of proactive, policy-driven transformation aimed at fostering a safer, more inclusive academic environment.
