KARACHI:
Educational institutes that are meant to be sanctuaries for learning, growth and equal opportunities, have become unsafe for women in Pakistan. Recent reports indicate that women face sexual harassment from those in positions of power; however, the prey could be anyone.
Being a student of the University of Karachi allows me to witness a variety of incidents of sexual harassment within the premises. A friend of mine, for instance, was recently harassed by a rickshaw driver within the premises. She promptly got off the rickshaw and hurriedly ran towards the University gate. Fortunately, she was able to reach the security personnel stationed at the gate and escaped the situation. Her mental health was seriously affected and it took her days to recover.
It is common that sexual harassment among university students can have wide-ranging and long-lasting consequences for individuals, parents and the university community. Legislation, universities, parents and religious leaders must take immediate proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment and provide support and resources for students who have experienced harassment or assault. Addressing this issue can create a safer and more inclusive environment for the students.
Abeer Fatima
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 14th, 2024.
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