By David Onwuchekwa
We congratulate the newly inaugurated Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr Chioma Awuzie who will pilot the affairs of that great institution of higher learning for the next five years.
As she assumes duties we feel concerned to remind her of some of the evils lecturers and school authorities in higher institutions generally can perpetrate against the students ranging from exploitation, harassment, and mistreatment.
It is a common knowledge that lecturers may demand sexual favours from students in exchange for good grades or other benefits.These lecturers most of the time use their authority to intimidate and emotionally abuse and humiliate the students.
School authorities may charge exorbitant fees or demand bribes from students which amounts to financial exploitation even without minding the pains of indigent students.
There has been outcry of academic exploitation by the students whose voices are always swallowed by intimidation.
Lecturers demand that students buy their textbooks sometimes at exorbitant prices or attend their private tutorials for a fee and anything against that would lead to low grades to the affected students with a negative impact on their overall performance.
Lecturers and school authorities may discriminate against students based on their ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic status.
All these are condemnable acts that must be erased from the school system where future leaders of this country are trained.
We, therefore, urge the Dr Awuzie-led administration of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko to establish clear policies and procedures in the institution which should be developed and enforced to address complaints of harassment, abuse, and exploitation that might be experienced by the students who are always the victims of those evil activities at the campus.
The institution should foster a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity, where students feel safe and supported. If these are already in existence, they should be strengthened.
Lecturers should receive training on issues such as sexual harassment, emotional abuse, and financial exploitation to maintain civility and enduring academic progress.
The institution should encourage students participation in decision-making processes and solicit feedback on their experiences which should be done in utmost secrecy.
Lecturers and school authorities should be held accountable for their actions, and there should be transparency in decision-making processes.
The institution should strengthen its support services such as counseling, academic advising, and financial assistance to help students who have been affected by these evils.
External stakeholders including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the media should be engaged to address these issues and promote accountability.
When these solutions are put in place, higher institutions can create a safer and more supportive environment for students, and help to prevent the evils perpetuated by lecturers and school authorities.
We say congratulations once again to Dr Awuzie and her new administration as we wish her God’s wisdom in managing the affairs of the Federal Poly, Oko during her tenure.
