The Federal Ombudsperson for Protection against Harassment graced Nazeer Hussain University (NHU), Karachi, as the chief guest at an awareness seminar on workplace harassment
The Federal Ombudsperson for Protection against Harassment, Ms. Fauzia Viqar, graced Nazeer Hussain University (NHU), Karachi, as the chief guest at an awareness seminar on workplace harassment. NHU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Bilal Ahmed Alvi, Acting Registrar Dr. Faraz Ahmed Shaikh, and the Chairman of the Harassment Committee were also present, showcasing the university's dedication to fostering a safe and supportive environment. In her address, Ms. Viqar emphasized the critical importance of reporting harassment and encouraged everyone to actively support others in breaking the silence. "Silence makes us accomplices," she asserted. She further stressed that the effective implementation of harassment laws hinges on victims raising their voices against such violations. Drawing from both local and international examples, Ms. Viqar instilled a sense of shared responsibility among the attendees, advocating for a gender-equal Pakistan where every individual is treated with dignity and respect as mandated by Article 14 of the Constitution. She emphasized that everyone's active participation is essential for the nation's development. Mr. Muhammad Aliyan, Assistant Law Officer for FOSPAH (Sindh), discussed the expanded scope of the harassment law following the 2022 amendments. He highlighted that the law now covers not only sexual harassment but also gender-based discrimination that undermines personal dignity. He assured that any aggrieved individual—men, women, or transgender persons—can seek redress either through the Harassment Inquiry Committee or FOSPAH. The seminar witnessed active participation from both students and faculty members. It concluded with an engaging Q&A session and the distribution of souvenirs.