Enlightening CUI Community on “Protection against Harassment at the Workplace”

December 8, 2025

The Faculty Development Academy (FDA) of COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) organized an insightful and highly interactive seminar titled “Protection against Harassment at the Workplace” on December 8, 2025. The seminar was arranged by FDA in collaboration with Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat at Seminar Hall. Academic Block 1, CUI Islamabad.  The program aimed at fostering a safer, more respectful and inclusive work environment across the university community.

The program started with recitation of Holy Quran and was moderated by Ms. Aafia Malik. Mr. Ali Tawab Baloch, Incharge FDA welcomed the participants and brief them about objectives of the seminar. The faculty, officers, staff, and students participated in the seminar to deepen their understanding of the legal frameworks, institutional policies, and ethical responsibilities related to workplace conduct. Mr. Waqar Ahmed, Assistant Registrar, Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat was the resource person for the seminar. He highlighted the significance of maintaining professionalism, recognizing various forms of harassment, and promoting a culture where individuals feel empowered to report misconduct without fear of retaliation.

Key discussions focused on the ‘Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act’, university complaint procedures, the role of inquiry committees, and the importance of preventive measures such as training, awareness, and bystander intervention. The seminar also discussed rules about sexual harassment. Participants engaged actively through Q&A sessions, scenario-based discussions, and reflections on best practices for ensuring safety and dignity at work.

FDA emphasized that such training sessions are part of an ongoing commitment to professional development and employee well-being. The seminar concluded with a call for continuous awareness-building and adherence to institutional values of respect, integrity, and accountability.

The Faculty Development Academy reaffirmed its dedication to organizing similar educational initiatives to create a positive and harassment-free workplace culture at CUI.