HEC trains 64 varsity reps on policy on protection against harassment in universities

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Apr, 2026) The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, in collaboration with Mehergarh, successfully organised a two-day training session on the HEC`s “Policy on Protection against Harassment in Higher Education Institutions” and relevant legal frameworks at the HEC Regional Centre, Karachi.

The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of higher education institutions by enhancing awareness, understanding, and effective implementation of mechanisms to address harassment and gender-based inequalities in academic environments.

The policy initiative aligns with key global priorities under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inxlusing SDG-5 (Gender Equality), like Promoting gender equality and ending discrimination; and others.

A total of 64 participants from 21 higher education institutions across Karachi attended the training. The programme was designed for Members of Inquiry Committees on Harassment and focal persons responsible for implementing the policy within their respective institutions.

The Primary objective of the training was to build institutional capacity to effectively respond to harassment-related issues by equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools required for prevention, awareness, and redressal.

The participants gained a deeper understanding of legal and institutional frameworks governing harassment cases, as well as practical guidance on conducting fair and effective inquiry processes.

The training focused on three key learning outcomes, including developing conceptual clarity on harassment, particularly sexual harassment; understanding institutional mechanisms for implementation of the policy and law; and acquiring practical skills for conducting transparent and effective inquiries.

The sessions were facilitated by Executive Director Mehergarh Ms. Maliha Husain, Director (Regional Centre) HEC Mr. Sulaiman Ahmad, and Dr. Shahjehan Manthar from HEC Karachi. Their participatory approach and expert insights ensured an engaging and impactful learning experience for all attendees.

This initiative reflects HEC’s continued commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and safe learning and working environments across higher education institutions in Pakistan, and to promoting a culture of respect, accountability, and zero tolerance for harassment.