Whispers in the Corridors: Sexual Harassment of Female Students in Higher Education and the Islamic Call for Dignity

Abstract

Sexual harassment is not only a violation of human dignity but also a painful reality that deprives students of the safe and respectful learning environment they deserve. In Islam, such behaviour is strictly forbidden as it violates the principles of modesty, haya, honour, and respect for women. This study examines the experiences of female students at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, to understand how harassment impacts their academic and personal lives. Using a cross-sectional descriptive design, data were collected from 100 students in the Gender Studies, Sociology, Chemistry, and English departments through questionnaires and analysed using SPSS 19.0. The results revealed that harassment was most common among undergraduate students 83%, single women 88%, and urban residents 83%, with Punjab recording the highest prevalence 92%. The forms of harassment ranged from sexist remarks and sexual jokes to whistling and unwanted advances, leaving many students distressed and vulnerable. The findings highlight that sexual harassment remains a widespread issue in Pakistani universities, undermining both the mission of higher education and the Islamic call to protect dignity, respect, and women’s honour.

Keywords: Sexual Harassment, Female Students, Higher Education, Islamic Values, Pakistan