The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has introduced new rules aimed at improving the safety of female students in public sector universities across the province. Under the new directives, male faculty members are no longer allowed to hold one-on-one meetings with female students in their offices. Universities have also been instructed to put new systems in place to handle complaints related to harassment and student safety.
According to a notification issued by the Higher Education Department from Peshawar, all public sector universities must strictly follow the new guidelines with immediate effect. The decision has been taken as part of wider efforts to create a safer and more supportive academic environment for women.
One of the key measures includes the appointment of at least one female faculty member in every department. This faculty member will act as a focal person to receive, address and help resolve issues faced by female students. The department said this step is meant to provide students with an accessible and trusted platform to raise concerns without hesitation.
In addition, universities have been directed to organize awareness seminars at least once every three months. These sessions will focus on laws related to harassment and students’ rights, helping both students and staff better understand acceptable conduct and available legal protections.
