The Center for Gender, Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD) at the University of Cape Coast has highlighted the need for Freshmen and continuing students to be assertive against sexual harassment and its related activities.
First-year tertiary students commenced their first semester education across the nation recently which has heightened the importance for which this issue should be addressed.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with ATLFM NEWS, an affiliate of CEGRAD and Peer Facilitator, Dorris Akalachiba Asandem urged students to be bold to voice out against any sexual harassment they may face.
According to her, students should hold on to values that contribute to successful decision-making while identifying actions from individuals who may or may not sit well with them.
“… the number of rape cases has increased in society. If someone wants to have sexual relations with you, you must be bold and assertive to tell the person you are not interested because you have every right. If the person goes ahead to override your consent, that is termed as rape.
Communication is very crucial in our daily lives; you must communicate well and get your views known to the other party. If the action persists, you can visit CEGRAD,” she continued.
Meanwhile, the Peer Facilitator for CEGRAD, Samuel Ofobi advised students to look out for persons who secretly film sexual acts without their consent to blackmail them.
He explained that technology has made it easier for people to request inappropriate pictures and videos from ladies which they use as blackmail to tarnish their image.
Mr. Ofobi revealed that men are not left out when it comes to sexual harassment.
To this end, he encouraged men also to immediately report to CEGRAD any case of sexual harassment from ladies.
He reiterated that CEGRAD office is ready to support any student about any issue involving their sexuality.
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Source: Comfort Sweety Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
