By Savious Madanhire
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and abuse in universities and colleges across the country.
This move comes in response to widespread reports of unethical conduct by lecturers and officials, who allegedly exploit students in exchange for better grades or other favors.
Moreover, it also responds to policymakers, parents, and gender activists, calling for stricter measures to protect students hence the ZGC has stepped in to investigate these abuses and ensure that learning environments remain safe and fair for all students.
The investigation which was announced by the ZGC Chairperson, Mrs. Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe, last Friday in a government gazette, states that the commission is urging victims and witnesses to come forward and submit written complaints, statements, and supporting evidence to assist in the investigation.
Further to the above notice, an invitation is hereby given to any victims or witnesses to any acts of sexual harassment and abuse in tertiary institutions and institutions of higher learning to present to the Commission written complaints, witnesses’ statements, and any other supporting documents or evidence which can assist in the investigation,” reads the notice.
Additionally, the notice states that once the written complaints have been reviewed, the ZGC will conduct oral hearings on dates to be announced later.
Oral hearings will commence thereafter on dates to be advised by the Commission. Any person who wishes to make any submissions regarding the above should visit the Commission Offices and/or submit them, in writing, to the Chief Executive Officer, Zimbabwe Gender Commission, First Floor, Pax House, 89, Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, Harare, or send to complaints@zgc.co.zw by not later than the 31st of August, 2025,” the notice reads.
However, the investigation aims to address the alarming rates of sexual misconduct in tertiary institutions, where students, particularly those facing financial difficulties, are vulnerable to exploitation hence the ZGC has invited submissions from victims, witnesses, and anyone with information regarding sexual harassment and abuse in institutions of higher learning.
To expose perpetrators who have reportedly taken advantage of students facing financial difficulties, particularly those struggling with accommodation, food, and academic expenses.“
