NAU Centre for Gender Studies Holds Workshop on Gender Sexual Orientation and Policy Awareness on campus
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, has organised a one-day sensitisation workshop on sexual orientation and policy awareness, aimed at promoting understanding of institutional regulations, student rights, and available support systems on campus.
The workshop, themed “Gender, Sexual Orientation and Policy Awareness on Campus,” was organised by the Centre for Gender Studies (CGS) in collaboration with the Students’ Affairs Unit of the university. The event took place at the University Auditorium.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, represented by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji, commended the organisers for initiating the programme at a time when issues surrounding identity, orientation, and institutional policies require clarity, empathy, and responsible engagement.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Anyaehie, described the university as a citadel of learning grounded in excellence, integrity, diversity, and respect for human dignity. He emphasised the institution’s commitment to maintaining a safe and disciplined environment where students and staff can pursue academic excellence without fear of harassment or discrimination.
According to him, the workshop was not intended to promote any specific agenda but to create awareness about existing national laws and university policies guiding such conduct on campus.
“The objective is to enlighten students on their rights and responsibilities, make them aware of available support systems such as counselling, mentorship, and guidance services, and help them understand the consequences of actions that violate university regulations and the laws of the land,” he said.
He urged students to actively participate, ask questions respectfully, and embrace knowledge as a guide for responsible decision-making.
He further noted that university life is a critical stage of personal growth that must be anchored on discipline, values, and accountability.
The Vice-Chancellor also tasked student leaders with upholding the dignity of all members of the university community while ensuring adherence to institutional rules. He directed relevant units, including CGS, the Students Affairs Unit, and CCCD, to ensure that outcomes from the workshop are translated into sustained sensitisation and counselling programmes.
Declaring the workshop open, he stressed that prevention through education remains more effective than disciplinary correction, encouraging participants to engage with open minds and mutual respect.
In her remarks, the Director, Centre for Gender Studies, Prof. Ezimma Nnabuife, enlightened students on gender, sexual orientation, and policy awareness within the campus context.
She urged students to be alert against all negative trends in society presently, being mindful of the friends they keep and being kind to those on the wrong path.
Prof Nnabuife pointed out the policy existence of gender rights in Nigeria admonishing the students on the existence of LGBTO + and to avoid falling victim to any negative compulsion, remember their home training and avoid falling prey to those who may take advantage of them.
Also speaking, the Deputy Director of the Centre, Prof. Ifeoma Odinye, speaking on the topic “Understanding sexual orientation “emphasised the importance of understanding sexual orientation as a means of promoting knowledge, safety, and human dignity, rather than enforcing acceptance or rejecting cultural values. She noted that while students may hold different beliefs, no individual should be subjected to bullying, harassment, or dehumanisation. She urged universities to foster respect, prevent violence, and encourage peaceful coexistence.
Speaking on his capacity as Dean of Students Affairs on the topic “Students and Campus Life”, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji encouraged students to cultivate self-awareness, integrity, and self-respect, assuring them that efforts were ongoing to address challenges affecting student welfare, particularly in the Ifite area.
The Director of the Centre for Career Counselling and Development, CCCD, Prof. Harry Obi Nwosu, advised students to seek guidance when necessary and take advantage of opportunities that support their academic and personal development.
Rev. Fr. Prof. Ikenga Oraegbunam also spoke on the topic “LGBTQ+ policies and laws in Nigeria
The workshop featured interactive discussions on policy awareness, student welfare, counselling services, and responsible conduct, reinforcing the university’s commitment to building a safe and informed environment for learning.