The Municipal Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) for the Yilo and Manya Krobo Municipalities, Mr Alfred Akuffo Larbi, has urged newly admitted students of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya, Eastern Region, to respect consent, uphold the dignity and rights of others, and refrain from sexual harassment and discriminatory behaviour.
He emphasised that every individual deserves respect, regardless of their ethnic, cultural, social or economic background, and cautioned students against stereotyping and actions that infringed on the rights of others.
Mr Larbi made the remarks during a presentation on sexual harassment and abuse at the University’s ongoing two-day orientation programme for the 2026/2027 academic year. He stressed that being in a romantic relationship does not entitle either partner to engage in unwanted sexual conduct. He further advised students to exercise caution when using social media, particularly when sharing private information and sensitive images, and cautioned them to be mindful of the legal consequences of sexual offences and other forms of misconduct.
Welcoming the students on behalf of Management, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. (Mrs) Daniella Delali Sedegah, encouraged them to embrace the opportunities and challenges of University education. She emphasised the importance of adapting positively to the environment, taking personal and academic responsibilities seriously, and making effective use of available resources to support their academic and personal development.
The Director of the Directorate of Information Technology, Systems and Operations (DITSO), Dr. Emmanuel Kitcher, introduced the students to the University’s digital infrastructure and communication platforms. He highlighted the importance of information and communication technology (ICT) resources in supporting teaching, learning, research and administrative communication. Dr. Kitcher also urged the students to familiarise themselves with the University’s ICT policy, protect their passwords, maintain online security and use official communication channels responsibly.
The University’s Counselling Unit, led by Ms Rosalita Patience Davis (Esq.), highlighted the importance of psychological, emotional, social and academic well-being. The team encouraged students to seek counselling when necessary, emphasising that the service was available not only to those experiencing difficulties but also to students seeking personal development and guidance. The students were informed that the Unit provides support in areas including academic challenges, relationship concerns, study habits, examination anxiety and adjustment to university life.
Other sessions covered were: library services, health, campus security and essential student support services aimed at promoting a safe and conducive learning environment. Students were encouraged to familiarise themselves with the University’s health and security arrangements and use the appropriate channels to seek assistance when necessary.
The orientation programme is expected to continue with presentations on the history of the University, University administration, academic structures, academic policy, an overview of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Constitution and the Students’ Handbook.
The newly admitted students are pursuing various undergraduate programmes, including BSc Sustainable Development, BSc Environment and Public Health, BSc Architecture and Sustainable Design, BSc Urban Planning and Development, BSc Water Resources and Development, BSc Sustainable Construction Management, BSc Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, BSc Development Economics, BSc Environmental Economics and Sustainability Science, BSc Environmental and Sustainability Science, BSc Geography and Earth Science, BSc Energy Sustainability, BSc Aquaculture Management, BSc Biological and Mathematical Sciences, and BSc Mathematics.