DIRECTOR GMO, OLUFUNMILOLA AJANI AT FACULTY OF THE SOCIAL SCIENCES ORIENTATION HIGHLIGHTS WHAT SEXUAL HARASSMENT IS AND ISN'T

By Blessing Agbor

On April 7, the Faculty of the Social Sciences welcomed its freshers with an orientation programme organised by the faculty executives at the Large Lecture Theatre (LLT).

The event commenced at 11:00 a.m. with the singing of the national and university anthems by lecturers, students, and other distinguished guests. The Faculty Public Relations Officer then introduced members of the high table, including the Dean, Staff Advisor Dr. Stephen Lafenwa, the Faculty Librarian, Director of UI-CDC Prof. D.A. Oluwole, the Sub-Dean, and other notable lecturers.

In his welcome address, the Faculty President congratulated the freshmen on securing admission into the prestigious University of Ibadan. He also outlined a vision of building the Faculty of the Social Sciences into one of the most outstanding faculties in the university’s history.

A major highlight of the programme was the session on gender equality delivered by the Director of the Gender Mainstreaming Office, Prof. Olufunmilola Ajayi. She sensitised students to issues surrounding gender equality and sexual harassment, stressing that harassment goes beyond the commonly perceived notion of rape.

Prof. Ajani provided insight into the University of Ibadan’s Gender Policy and Gender Harassment Policy, clearly outlining what constitutes sexual harassment and what does not. She identified various forms of harassment, including cyber harassment, pornography, and verbal sexual harassment, among others.

Her session served as a crucial guide for students, equipping them with the awareness needed to navigate university life responsibly while upholding the rights, dignity, and safety of others.