1. Purpose & Scope

Riphah International University, Faisalabad, is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This policy aims to prevent harassment of any kind and ensure that gender interactions occur in accordance with Islamic values and university regulations.

This policy applies to all members of the university community both on-campus and off-campus during university-related activities, including fieldwork, internships, and events.

2. Zero-Tolerance Commitment

• The university maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or exploitation.
• All complaints will be addressed promptly, fairly, and confidentially.
• Retaliation against any individual who reports harassment is strictly prohibited.

3. Definitions

Harassment
Any unwelcome verbal, non-verbal, written, or physical conduct that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment. This includes:

• Sexual harassment.
• Bullying, threats, or verbal abuse.
• Unwanted advances or suggestive remarks.
• Displaying offensive material.

Gender Interaction Guidelines

• Interactions between male and female students must be professional, purposeful, and respectful.
• Unnecessary mixing, private meetings without academic purpose, or social gatherings between genders on university premises are prohibited.
• Group work or meetings involving both genders should be conducted in open, designated spaces.

4. Reporting Procedure

• Any individual who experiences or witnesses harassment may report it to:
  • The Harassment Complaint Cell.
  • The Proctorial Board.
  • Any trusted faculty or staff member.
• Complaints can be submitted in writing, online, or in person.
• The university will investigate all complaints within a reasonable timeframe and take appropriate action.

5. Disciplinary Actions

Depending on the severity, violations may result in:

• Formal warning.
• Mandatory counseling.
• Suspension or expulsion (for students).
• Termination of employment (for staff/faculty).
• Legal proceedings under the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act and other applicable laws.

6. Awareness & Training

• The university conducts regular awareness sessions on harassment prevention and gender ethics.
• Orientation programs for new students include a detailed briefing on this policy.