'Romantic relationship’ between teachers, students banned in KP university

The 'intimate or romantic relationship' between faculty, staff members, and students was banned in Peshawar's Khyber Medical University (KMU), a notification issued by the varsity said.

The notification entitled ‘Prohibition of intimate or romantic relationships between faculty members, staff and students as per HEC’s policy on protection against sexual harassment in higher education institutions 2020' was issued by the chairperson of KMU’s harassment inquiry committee Dr Brekhna Jamil.

"The penalties for violating the policy are severe and may include oral or written reprimand, dismissal, suspension, expulsion, disciplinary probation, imposition of fine, withholding of degree, cancellation of professional licence, inclusion of decision in personal file and other related sanctions as deemed appropriate," the notification read.

“These relationships pose conflicts of interest, compromise professional judgment, and risk the credibility of the institution. The individuals involved in such relationships should declare it,” it added.

"KMU maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any kind and recent actions taken for violating this policy include expulsion of a Grade-18 staff member, written reprimand, fines and demotion for another Grade-17 staff member. Several other senior staff members have been given final warning and they are under surveillance."

Dr Brekhna, in the notification, requested all to spread the policy within the respective institute and administrative section. 

"Please ensure that all the faculty, staff, and students are fully informed and comply with the provisions outlined in the policy," she added in the statement.