Gulu University Launches 16 Days of Activism to Strengthens the fight Against Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Violence

Gulu University on 14th-11-2025 officially launched its annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, reaffirming its commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and empowering learning environment for all students and staff. The event brought together administrators, student leaders, government officials, and partners in a united call to end all forms of sexual harassment and violence within the institution and the wider community.

This was with a focus on creating awareness of the Gulu University Anti-Sextual Harassment Policy to the freshers at the University. The Policy was formulated in 2021 and protects both the students and the teaching staff when it comes to sexual harassment.

The ceremony organized by the 24th Guild Government was officially opened with remarks from, Dr. Doreen Chemutai, coordinator for Gender Mainstreaming Unit, who welcomed participants and emphasized the significance of sustained advocacy. She noted that the campaign is not merely symbolic but represents a long-term commitment to safeguarding students and fostering accountability.

Cutting of the ribbon during the launch.
The Deputy Dean of students Pamela Peace Okwir reinforced the university’s dedication to student protection, highlighting the importance of evidence-based reporting and shedding light on forms of gender based sexual harassment that often go unaddressed. She reminded student leaders that the 24th Guild Government has a responsibility to lead by example.

Representing the administration, the University Secretary, David Obol Otori, delivered a clear and firm message on the institution’s stance.
“Violence has no place in modern society. Gulu University does not and will not tolerate any form of gender-based violence.”

“To my staff and the students, can we avoid gender-based violence. And this is also a call to students if anybody is harassing you among my staff run to us, in Gulu university we do not tolerate any form of violence”.

He noted that policies, reporting mechanisms, and disciplinary structures are in place and continuously strengthened to ensure meaningful enforcement.

Students acting a play on sexual harasment.
The campaign also featured a keynote address by Hon. Betty Aol Ochan, Woman Member of Parliament for Gulu City, who called for collective action across the Acholi subregion. She stressed that ending violence requires cooperation from families, communities, institutions, and law enforcement. Her message was rooted in values of empathy and dignity.

“Do unto others what you would want done to you.”
She also highlighted the broader context of labour exploitation that comes with various forms of violence, particularly of Ugandans working abroad and reminded stakeholders of their duty to uphold dignity in every working environment.

Prof. Openjuru, George Ladaah, the Vice Chancellor re-enforced the university’s zero-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment. He emphasized that any romantic or sexual relationship between lecturers and students is strictly prohibited, as it compromises consent and exploits power dynamics.

“Consent only applies in student-to-student relationships. Where power is unequal, consent cannot exist in educational institution it’s a moral obligation before anything else”. He said.
Finally, Professor Openjuru, urged students not to fear reporting violations of the policy and assured the community of vigilant enforcement.

This awareness campaign launch was supported by partners like TAGDev 2.0 and Common-Wealth of Learning.