Harassment
In response to concerns regarding harassment on campuses, the Khyber Medical University (KMU) has implemented a ban on ‘intimate relationships’ between staff members and students.
This decision aligns with the guidelines set forth by the Higher Education Commission. Dr. Brekhna Jamil, chairperson of KMU’s harassment inquiry committee, issued a notification outlining the penalties that individuals found violating this policy may face.
The penalties range from oral or written reprimand to more severe measures such as dismissal, suspension, expulsion, disciplinary probation, imposition of fines, withholding of degrees, cancellation of professional licenses, inclusion of decisions in personal files, and other related sanctions as deemed appropriate.
The notification emphasized that such relationships present conflicts of interest, compromise professional judgment, and undermine the institution’s credibility. It stressed the importance of individuals involved in such relationships to declare them.
KMU maintains a zero-tolerance stance towards harassment in any form. Additionally, several senior staff members have received final warnings and are currently under surveillance.
Dr. Brekhna urged all faculty members to ensure the dissemination of the policy among students and staff. The adoption of this policy by KMU reflects the necessity to address issues related to personal relationships within the academic community.
The policy specifies that individuals must refrain from conduct that could compromise their professional responsibilities for supervision or oversight.
Furthermore, it explicitly prohibits intimate or romantic relationships between faculty/staff and students, whether at the undergraduate or graduate level.
This comprehensive approach underscores KMU’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive learning environment, free from harassment and conflicts of interest.
By enforcing strict guidelines regarding personal relationships, the university aims to uphold professional standards and safeguard the well-being of its academic community.
