Ensure women, girls are safe

AS a brother and son, I worry about my partner, mum, aunties, and sisters every time they go out to work, school, the market or just to the shops.
They need to be escorted everywhere because their safety is not guaranteed.
Only a few people are tarnishing the good name of all good Papua New Guinean men.
Most females leave their homes to study and work.
Their parents work hard to ensure they are safe.
Sadly, this is not the case.
How would you feel if someone close to you continues to live under fear?
Women and girls are abused and harassed everywhere.
It happens in offices and universities.
With regard to the harassment incident at the University of PNG some time ago, I say shame on the students who were more concerned about the university’s reputation than addressing the issue.
I want the university council to investigate this matter and have the perpetrators expelled.
Let it be a lesson to others who think and behave as animals.
Perpetrators do not deserve a place in an institution that has produced some great leaders of the nation.
Campus security should protect the students.
They should not just spectate.
They are supposed to be maintaining peace and order, dealing with issues such as abuse and harassment and other security issues.
I commend the female students who took a bold stance by demanding the university to address issues relating to their safety and wellbeing on campus.
Our men and boys should learn to respect our women and girls.

Former UPNG Blood