Sexual Harassment Policy at a Higher Education Institution: Knowledge and Perceptions of Undergraduate Students

Abstract Background ‘University of uThukela is a placebo name used to protect the identity of the institution.’ Sexual harassment in higher education institutions appears to be an ongoing deplorable and dreadful matter for students. This study seeks to establish a rich understanding of the knowledge and perceptions that students at the ‘University of uThukela’ have on sexual harassment and its policies, and the role played by the policy in the institution in educating students about sexual harassment, with the intent to prevent and deter sexual harassment. Methods The study used a Qualitative exploratory design, focusing on the Interpretivist paradigm in understanding issues of sexual harassment. More specifically, the study used semi-structured individual interviews to sexual harassment staff members responsible for sexual harassment implementation within the ‘University of uThukela’ and external experts. Furthermore, focus group discussions, and a knowledge test to undergraduate students in two departments as measuring instruments. Self-selection (volunteer) and snowball sampling were used to identify the research participants. Results This study has revealed that sexual harassment is prevalent in the ‘University of uThukela’. Student participants indicated general knowledge of sexual harassment. However, they showed poor knowledge of the institution’s policy. Findings further revealed that the institution lacks sufficiently trained individuals receiving cases of sexual harassment. According to the interviewed support specialists, findings show that the latter impacted students’ academic performance, health, and social life. Conclusion It is recommended that the institution educates students about sexual harassment policies, the definitions, and types of sexual harassment. Ensuring consistent training and implementation of personnel policies and practices, to further create a safe and inclusive learning environment.