Special Aide to the Vice President, Professor Theresah Patrine Ennin, has called on universities to take decisive action against perpetrators of sexual harassment in order to create safer learning environments for both students and staff.

According to her, institutions must move beyond policy declarations and take firm measures to punish offenders, warning that failure to do so undermines justice and weakens the integrity of universities.

Prof. Ennin, who is also an Associate Professor of Literature, Gender and Film Studies at the University of Cape Coast, made the call while delivering the keynote address at an International Women’s Day event organised by the Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD) on March 10, 2026.

She stressed that universities have a responsibility to establish clear and trusted reporting systems for sexual harassment and gender-based violence, while ensuring that victims receive justice when cases are reported.

“No student should have to choose between her education and her safety. When sexual harassment is trivialised and perpetrators are allowed to go free, institutional integrity begins to crumble,” she said.

Prof. Ennin further emphasised that universities must move beyond merely recognising the contributions of women and instead take concrete institutional actions to advance gender equality.

She noted that although women have played significant roles in national development across sectors such as education, business, public service and academia, many achieved success in environments that were not originally designed to include them.

“Recognising women’s achievements is important, but recognition alone does not change institutions, dismantle inequality or guarantee justice. What changes institutions is responsibility,” she said.

Prof. Ennin also urged universities to intentionally mentor young women for leadership roles and ensure balanced representation on decision-making committees.

According to her, institutions must avoid tokenism and instead appoint qualified women to positions where they can influence policies and contribute meaningfully to governance.

Addressing students at the event, she encouraged young women to take their intellectual development seriously and actively participate in national conversations on leadership and development.

She also called on young men to support gender equality efforts, stressing that empowering women does not diminish men but rather strengthens society.

The event formed part of activities marking International Women’s Day at the University of Cape Coast and brought together faculty members, students, traditional leaders and guests to discuss practical ways institutions can promote women’s rights and justice.

Prof. Ennin concluded by urging institutions to translate commitments into action.

“The future of equality in Ghana will not be decided by speeches,” she said. “It will be decided by institutions that are willing to act.”