Tackling sexual harassment in schools

to media reports on a teen’s claim of a teacher allegedly making rape jokes in class. If true, this behaviour is inappropriate as educators’ conduct should be exemplary, besides inculcating moral values in students.

To eradicate sexual harassment in the education sector, schools must have a clear policy prohibiting sexual harassment and this includes verbal harassment.

Schools should also have a grievance procedure to deal with violations of the policy, which is to provide for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints.

The policy and grievance procedure on sexual harassment claims should be distributed widely and easily understood by students, parents and school administrators.

At the very least, students must know of the grievance procedure and the process to lodge a complaint.

Where a report is lodged, schools should explain to victims or complainants about the grievance procedure.

If victims or complainants choose not to use the school’s grievance procedure, that does not relieve the school of its responsibilities to investigate and take action as the school has a duty to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students.

The best way for schools to deal with sexual harassment is to prevent it from occurring.

It is important for schools to conduct sexual harassment awareness campaigns for staff and students.

The training can include information on conduct that is considered sexual harassment and the possible consequences, and the damage that results from harassment.

The training can get students to find ways to oppose harassment.

As students attend school to gain knowledge, the school environment should be safe and, hence, the need for schools to put in place the above policy and grievance procedure.

PROFESSOR DR ASHGAR ALI ALI MOHAMED

International Islamic University Malaysia