The Special Envoy of the International Human Rights Protection Services (Forum), Amb. Charles Omini, has called on universities across West Africa to strengthen the protection of students’ fundamental human rights and create safe learning environments free from intimidation, harassment, discrimination and sexual abuse.
Amb. Omini made the call while reaffirming his commitment to promoting human rights awareness and accountability within higher institutions across the West African region.
He also announced plans to establish Human Rights Clubs in universities across West Africa as part of efforts to educate students on their fundamental rights and encourage a culture of respect, justice and human dignity.
Human Rights Clubs to Promote Awareness on Campuses
According to Amb. Omini, the proposed Human Rights Clubs will provide platforms for educating students about their rights, promoting peaceful coexistence, encouraging responsible reporting of human rights violations and raising awareness about the protection of vulnerable members of university communities.
He explained that the initiative would empower students with the knowledge and confidence to identify, report and respond appropriately to human rights violations within their institutions.
Universities Urged to Address Sexual Harassment and Intimidation
The IHRPS Special Envoy stressed that universities must remain safe environments where students can pursue their academic ambitions without fear of intimidation, discrimination, harassment or sexual abuse.
He maintained that every student deserves respect, dignity, justice and equal opportunities, irrespective of their background or personal circumstances.
Amb. Omini further urged university managements across West Africa to strengthen institutional policies and reporting mechanisms to prevent sexual harassment, intimidation and other forms of abuse.
He emphasised the need for complaints to be handled fairly, transparently and appropriately to ensure justice for affected students.
Calls for Collective Responsibility in Protecting Students
The Special Envoy noted that protecting students’ fundamental rights is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of university administrators, lecturers, student leaders, governments and relevant human rights organisations.
He reaffirmed his readiness to collaborate with universities, student organisations, human rights advocates and other stakeholders to promote accountability, justice, peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity across the region.
Amb. Omini concluded by urging universities to make the protection of students’ rights a priority, stressing that no student should experience intimidation, harassment or sexual abuse in the pursuit of education.
The proposed establishment of Human Rights Clubs across West African universities is expected to contribute to greater awareness of fundamental rights and encourage safer, more inclusive and accountable academic environments.
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