Rangpur: A discussion on "Prevention of sexual and gender-based violence in public spaces, workplaces and tertiary educational institutions" was held at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR) today. The event was organized by the legal aid and human rights organization 'Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK)' in collaboration with the BRUR Sexual Harassment Prevention Committee, with funding from the European Union and support from UN Women.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Vice-chancellor of the university, Professor Dr Md Showkat Ali, was present as the chief guest at the event held at the conference room of the university's administrative building. In his speech, the chief guest emphasized the importance of ending sexual and gender-based violence, noting it as both a social responsibility and a moral commitment.
He highlighted the institutional and moral duty to advocate for women's rights, education, and safety at BRUR, a university named in honor of the iconic figure Begum Rokeya Shakhawat Hossain. Expressing concerns over issues like eve-teasing and online cyber harassment, the Vice-chancellor stressed that changing mindsets and ensuring institutional accountability are as crucial as laws and policies.
"Our goal is to build a safe and dignified campus where no woman, student, or employee will live in fear. With collective efforts, we will be able to build a safe, equal and humane society," he added.
The programme was presided over by Dr Md Tajul Islam, President of the BRUR Sexual Harassment Prevention Committee and Professor of the Mathematics Department. Professor Dr Md Elias Pramanik, Member-secretary of the BRUR Sexual Harassment Prevention Committee and Director of the Office of Students' Affairs, moderated the event. The event was attended by UN Women Bangladesh Programme Analyst Tashiba Kashem, ASK Adviser Mubarak Mohammad, and various university teachers, officials, and students.