Harare, ( New Ziana) – “Every student and educator in Zimbabwe has the right to learn, teach and grow in an environment of safety, dignity and respect, free from sexual harassment,” an official has said .
Launching a National Inquiry into sexual harassment in higher and tertiary institutions on Thursday at Harare Polytechnic, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, commissioner Mukahanana Sangarwe said the Commission is taking a big step to stop sexual harassment in colleges and universities.
“Each report we receive is not just a complaint. It is a cry for justice,” she said. “This is a serious issue that affects the future of students and the dignity of staff. We must act.” The National Inquiry will collect information about how often sexual harassment happens, how colleges and universities are handling it, and what rules or actions are missing.
It is meant to help make learning environments safer for both students and staff. The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. Other guests included student leaders, civil society groups, and development partners.
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission made it clear that this inquiry is not just for girls or women, but for everyone. Boys and male staff also face harassment, and the goal is to protect all people in these institutions. “This inquiry is for boys and girls,” said Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe.
“We want every person to feel safe and respected.” She called on everyone – students, teachers, administrators, and communities – to take part in the inquiry by sharing their views and stories. “Let us work together to change our colleges and universities into places where everyone can grow without fear,” she said.
Virginia Muwanigwa, the chief executive officer of the Commission, also spoke strongly against the silence around harassment. “We must no longer be shackled by the scourge of sexual harassment,” she said.
“The era of silence, impunity and suffering is over.” She explained that many young people have dropped out of school, lost opportunities, or suffered emotionally because of sexual harassment. “This is not just about personal pain, it’s a national problem,” she said. “We are losing talent and holding back development.”
Civil society groups like the Female Students Network and the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe welcomed the launch. They said this is a big and important step to give survivors a voice and make schools safer. “This is the beginning of change,” said a student representative.
“We are happy to be part of it.” The Zimbabwe Gender Commission said the inquiry will include interviews, surveys, and visits to institutions. The final report will be presented to Parliament, and the Commission promised it will not be ignored.
“We will follow up to make sure change happens,” said Mukahanana Sangarwe. “Let this be the generation that ended silence and created safe spaces for all.”
New Ziana
