Adopt DAFS to Combat Sexual Harassment—Lecturer Urges Gov’t, Varsities, Others

A lecturer from the Department of Mass Communication at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has urged the government, stakeholders, and higher institutions to adopt a Digital Anonymous Feedback System (DAFS) to address widespread sexual harassment within higher education institutions.

Speaking to the press in Lokoja on Wednesday, lecturer Onoja Johnson Baba emphasized that DAFS could create a safer environment for students by enabling anonymous reporting of incidents.

Onoja’s recommendations stem from his recent study, titled “Addressing Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Higher Institutions Through the Feasibility of a Digital Anonymous Feedback System,” published in the Asian Review of Social Sciences journal.

The study, conducted among 400 students across four federal universities, reveals alarming statistics on sexual harassment in Nigerian universities.

A staggering 45% of participants reported experiencing harassment, with 60% of incidents occurring on campus.

The research highlights that 62.5% of the affected students are women, often facing harassment from faculty or administrative staff.

Onoja stressed that current reporting mechanisms are insufficient, with only 30% of students aware of existing procedures.

“The existing mechanisms are often bureaucratic, and students fear repercussions, especially if they report incidents involving faculty members,” he said.

“Without effective and trusted channels, victims feel isolated and helpless.”

The study indicates that 80% of respondents support the adoption of DAFS, citing its potential to provide a secure and anonymous platform for students to report incidents without fear of retaliation.

Similar initiatives, like Ireland’s “Speak Out” tool, have proven effective in empowering victims and improving data collection on campus harassment.

Onoja believes Nigerian universities could replicate this model.

Additionally, the study calls for measures such as anonymous lecturer reviews on university websites, allowing students to safely share feedback and evidence of misconduct.

Other recommendations include awareness campaigns, regular training on harassment prevention, and support services for students and staff.

“Students are calling for accountability, and it’s time the institutions listen,” Onoja urged, emphasizing the urgency for change.

He expressed his willingness to collaborate with the government, universities, and technology firms to implement DAFS and foster a safer academic environment.