UN to combat sexual harassment in Bangladeshi universities

The United Nations (UN) on Tuesday expressed its willingness to work with the University Grants Commission (UGC) to prevent sexual harassment in all public and private universities. UN Women Country Representative Christine Hunter delivered the sentiment at a meeting with UGC Chairman Prof Abdul Mannan at the latter's office in the city, said a press release. Mahbubul Hakim, coordinator-EVAW of UN Women Bangladesh and UGC Secretary Dr Md Khaled were present at the meeting. Prof Mannan welcomed Christine Hunter at his office and briefed her about the measures undertaken by the UGC and government of Bangladesh in preventing sexual harassment in the country. He also said sexual harassment is not only a problem for Bangladesh, but a global problem. It is plaguing educational institutions all over the world, he added. Prof Mannan also emphasised the need to build awareness to curb the problem. He also said each university has a special committee for the prevention of sexual harassment. In addition, he mentioned that UGC had also formulated a guideline as per a High Court directive.