University of Sindh Jamshoro leads seminar on combating workplace harassment

Picture source - circa.org

In an effort to address workplace harassment issues, the Anti-harassment cell of the University of Sindh Jamshoro, in collaboration with the Institute of Gender Studies and Institute of Biochemistry, organized a seminar titled “Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace.” The seminar, held in the Hall of Biochemistry on Monday, was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Siddique Kalhoro. Attendees included students, teachers, and notable figures such as Director of the Institute of Gender Studies Prof. Dr. Misbah Bibi Qureshi and Director of the Institute of Chemistry Prof. Dr. Arfana Mallah.

Dr. Kalhoro underscored the University’s commitment to providing a safe environment for all, especially women, emphasizing the cultural context of Sindh and advocating for professional conduct. He praised the contributions of female professors and students, highlighting the equitable distribution of scholarships and academic achievements.

Sabiqa Shah, Regional head Sindh of the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat for Protection of Women against Harassment, stressed the importance of awareness and institutional mechanisms in combating harassment effectively. She emphasized the need to empower women with knowledge about their rights and avenues for redressal.

Uffaifah Samoo, Assistant Registrar of the Federal Ombudsman’s Secretariat, discussed the definition of sexual harassment and the importance of gender equality in educational and societal values. Assistant Law Officer FOSPAH Aliyan Shaikh highlighted the right to a safe workplace and the importance of promptly reporting harassment.

Dr. Naseem Aslam Channa, Director of SU’s Institute of Biochemistry and Chairperson of the Anti-Harassment Committee, reiterated the University’s dedication to upholding the dignity and rights of every member of the community through awareness campaigns and proactive measures.

Hanif Samoon is a senior journalist based at Thar/Badin and contributes reports from different districts of Sindh to Minute Mirror. He has won a number of awards, including the Agahi Award twice for his stories on health and child rights. He tweets @HanifSamoon1 and can be reached through email at [email protected]