In a proactive move towards fostering a safer and more inclusive campus environment, the University of the West Indies Mona Campus and its Institute for Gender & Development Studies have conducted workshops to combat sexual harassment.

This initiative made possible through funding from the British High Commission in Jamaica, saw the participation of 200 students from diverse backgrounds.

Throughout March, 150 students engaged in enlightening workshops designed to raise awareness about the significance of understanding and preventing sexual harassment.

These sessions highlighted the importance of cultivating a supportive and secure environment for all students, regardless of gender or disability.

50 students completed an intensive training program at UWI Mona Campus to become Sexual Harassment Prevention and Protection Peer Advisors, providing comprehensive knowledge and support to students navigating harassment issues.

The newly certified peer advisors have developed educational materials, including video presentations and posters, to reinforce the key learnings from their training.

These resources are potent tools for raising awareness and are readily accessible on the IGDS Mona Unit’s social media platforms.

Head of IGDS Mona Unit, Dr Karen Carpenter, expressed her sentiments regarding the university’s proactive stance said “At the IGDS, we acknowledge the prevalence of sexual harassment as a societal concern. This initiative signifies our commitment to addressing and combating this sensitive issue within the UWI Mona community and beyond. We commend the students who have stepped forward, and with the support of the British High Commission, we are effecting meaningful change towards a safer and more inclusive campus environment.”

Her Excellency Judith Slater, British High Commissioner to Jamaica, lauded UWI for spearheading efforts to empower students in addressing sexual harassment.

“I commend UWI for taking the lead in equipping students with the necessary skills to prevent and address instances of sexual harassment. As Jamaica moves towards implementing its Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, we trust that this training has empowered these 200 students to navigate this sensitive issue effectively. The UK is proud to have supported this initiative, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing its impact in the months ahead, ” she said.