The Perfector of Sentiments (POS) Foundation has raised concerns over student cohabitation and sexual harassment in some of Ghana's public universities, warning that the practices could undermine efforts to create safe learning environments.
The human rights organisation, POS, has been studying the issue as part of its Safe Campus and Sexual Harassment Prevention Project. The project, which covered five public universities, has found that cohabitation among students can contribute to domestic conflicts and, in some cases, escalate into physical or sexual abuse.
Student Cohabitation Widespread, POS Warns
Cohabitation among students was particularly prevalent at the University of Education, Winneba and the University of Cape Coast, according to the POS Foundation's study. Founder of the POS Foundation, Jonathan Osei Owusu, disclosed this at a conference in Accra where the organisation presented its findings. Mr Osei Owusu explained that such arrangements can create tensions between students living together, with disagreements potentially escalating into abusive situations.
Low awareness of sexual harassment policies is also a major concern. The POS Foundation found that fewer than 30% of students surveyed at the five universities had read their respective sexual harassment policies. The organisation believes this low level of awareness could limit the effectiveness of the policies and prevent students from properly understanding their rights and the channels available for reporting abuse.
Normalisation of Sexual Harassment Remains a Challenge
Gender specialist and field consultant for the project, Mercy Catherine Adjabeng, said the normalisation of sexual harassment in society remains a major obstacle to addressing the problem. According to Ms Adjabeng, victims are often discouraged from speaking out because incidents of harassment are downplayed or treated as normal behaviour. She stressed that consent must be central to discussions around sexual harassment.
"If the individual has not consented to anything, it is wrong," Ms Adjabeng said. The POS Foundation is calling on university authorities to intensify education on sexual harassment policies and ensure that the policies are effectively enforced.
Data Shows Ongoing Concerns
The POS Foundation cited data from the National Development Planning Commission's 2023 report showing that 131 cases of sexual harassment were reported to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service between 2016 and 2021. The Foundation says the figures, together with its findings from the five universities, highlight the need for stronger preventive measures and sustained education among students.
The POS Foundation wants university authorities to ensure that students are familiar with existing sexual harassment policies and can access effective reporting and support mechanisms. It further stressed that addressing sexual harassment requires not only policies but also effective implementation, awareness, and a culture that encourages victims to report incidents without fear of stigma or retaliation. The organisation believes that by working together, universities and students can create safe learning environments free from harassment, abuse, and intimidation.
Source: Joy Online
