DU Correspondent: In a significant move to ensure a safer campus environment, Dhaka University (DU) has established two distinct committees to address the issues of sexual harassment, abuse, bullying, and ragging. This decision was made in line with a recent resolution by the University Syndicate.
The first committee, named the `Committee for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Abuse,` will be chaired by Professor Dr. Ummama Kabir, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology. The second, the `Anti-Bullying and Ragging Committee,` will be headed by Professor Dr. Shahnaz Huda from the Department of Law
To streamline the complaint process, the Office of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) has already sent official letters to all Deans, Hall Provosts, Hall Wardens, Departmental Chairmen, Institute Directors, and the Proctor. The letters instruct all faculties, departments, institutes, halls, hostels, and the Proctor`s office to set up complaint boxes.
These units have been directed to collect the submitted complaints on a weekly basis and forward them to the respective committee chairpersons for investigation and action.
Furthermore, the university administration has advised all departments and institutes to organize workshops for both teachers and students. These workshops will focus on raising awareness about sexual harassment, abuse, bullying, and ragging, aiming to foster a culture of respect and zero tolerance for such misconduct on campus.