Dr Kingsley Agyei-Sarpong, Acting Director, Guidance and Counseling Unit, Tamale Technical University has appealed to academic institutions to establish policies to safeguard members and create conducive learning environment to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in these institutions.

He said the policy would play a key role in protecting students and staff from psychological trauma and academic disruption.

Dr Agyei-Sarpong made the appeal during a seminar on Sexual Harassment and Gender-based Violence, held in Tamale.

It was organised by the University for Development Studies (UDS) Center for Gender and Career Mentorship (CGCAM) in collaboration with Perfector of Sentiments Foundation (POS), a human rights NGO, and supported by Simplify Change.

It was on the theme: “Safe Spaces: preventing sexual harassment on campus” and was to create awareness on SGBV at the institutional level.

Dr Agyei-Sarpong urged management of academic institutions to uphold human rights and institutional integrity.

He said the safeguarding policy should have provisions, which would focus on zero tolerance for SGBV, confidential reporting and non-retaliation measures.

He called for systems to support survivors such as counseling and psychological support, free access to therapy and peer support groups.

Mr Jonathan Osei Owusu, Director of POS said preventing SGBV required multifaceted approach encompassing education, legal reforms, and community engagement.

He called on traditional and religious leaders to support the fight against SGBV in communities.

Professor Alhassan Musah, Senior Lecturer, UDS said interventions to reduce SGBV were needed to keep people safe in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.