KNUST Takes a Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

On Monday, June 23, 2025, the KNUST community gathered at the IDL Conference Center for a program aimed at increasing awareness and developing competencies in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and sexual harassment. The event, a collaboration between the Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA), Student Representative Council (SRC), and Perfector of Sentiments (PoS) Foundation, brought together students, staff, and other stakeholders. The organizers officially invited students from the various colleges on campus to be a part of this program. The College of Health Science was duly represented by our delegates: Ms. Philipa Ohene Agyekum and Ms. Laudina Pokuaa Gyabaah.

The program commenced at 9am with a prayer. It was led by a charismatic host, Prof. Marian Asantewaa Nkansah, Director of Student Affairs and the program's chairperson, who delivered a welcoming speech, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions. Mr. Jonathan, Director and Founder of the PoS Foundation, introduced the theme of the program, emphasizing the importance of personal autonomy with the phrase "my body, my integrity, my body, I'm in charge”. 

Two inspiring speakers, Dr. (Mrs.) Francess Dufie Azumah Esq. and Mrs. Victoria De-Graft Adjei, Deputy Registrar Head of KNUST Counselling Council, delivered powerful speeches on gender, harassment, rights, and the anti-sexual harassment policies of KNUST. Core ideas included:

- The importance of consent and respecting boundaries.

-  consent is voluntary and cannot be assumed.

- The affirmation that "no means no" and "yes first and no later still means no"

- The need to be bold and speak up when faced with problems

- Assurance of confidentiality when reporting incidents to DoSA and counsellors

The program also highlighted the importance of awareness and education on gender based violence and sexual harassment policies, including KNUST's zero-tolerance stance.

Participants were then divided into two groups led by Dr. Azumah and Mrs. De-Graft Adjei, respectively for more in-depth discussions on the anti-sexual harassment policies of KNUST, reinforcing the university's zero-tolerance stance. Participants learned about the importance of supporting friends who confide in them and encouraging them to seek professional help from the counselling services, even when sworn to secrecy. The groups reconvened to share summaries of their discussions, and Mr. Jonathan presented a video further emphasizing the concept of consent. 

The event concluded with a closing speech from Prof. Marian Asantewaa Nkansah, a spoken word performance, and a final prayer. The program was well-attended and featured other notable participants, including the SRC President, journalists, and lawyers.

This program served as a crucial reminder of KNUST's commitment to fostering a safe,supportive and respectful environment for all students and staff. By promoting awareness, open communication, and understanding of available resources, the university hopes to empower its community to stand together against Gender-Based Violence.

Reported by - Sarpong Takyiwaa Philipa 

The Health Sciences Chronicle