UGC directs universities, colleges to set up committee against Gender Bias

The Internal Complaint Committee will work toward making sure that no gender biases pertain in the atmosphere of colleges and universities. Any complaints in regards to this must be handled with sensitivity and impact, the higher education regulator stated.

UGC directs universities, colleges to set up committee against Gender Bias

University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked universities and colleges across the country to set up an internal complaint committee (ICC) to curb gender biases on campuses. UGC has also directed them to form a special cell that conducts gender sensitization programs.

In an official notification, UGC stated, “You are requested to ensure that ICC constituted your Esteemed University is working as per UGC (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment of Women Employees and Students in Higher Educational institutions) Regulations, 2015.”

Further, UGC has asked all the Universities and affiliated colleges to fill online compliance of Gender Audit on the SAKSHAM Portal.

The Internal Complaint Committee will work toward making sure that no gender biases pertain in the atmosphere of colleges and universities. Any complaints in regards to this must be handled with sensitivity and impact, the higher education regulator stated.

UGC had also asked varsities to set up women helpline numbers, police, and hospital helplines across the institutions. Also, colleges are required to organise exposure visits to villages, blocks, districts, and cities to impart knowledge about gender equality.

UGC has directed all the educational institutions in the country to ensure gender equality on their premises and every person should be treated with dignity and respect.

UGC in an official notification stated: “The Government of India, in order to increase the outreach for creating an environment that fosters equal treatment, envisages Gender Champions in all educational institutions across the country. Gender Champions can be both boys and girls above 16 years of age enrolled in educational institutions. Gender Champions are envisaged as responsible leaders who will facilitate an enabling environment within their schools/colleges/academic institutions where girls are treated with dignity and respect.”

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