FIDA Pushes for Mandatory Anti-GBV Courses in Kenyan Universities
FIDA program officer Virginia Kibunja addressing journalists at Technical university of Mombasa TUM during the Universities Anti-GBV forum. (Photo By Harrisom Kavisu)
By Mbungu Harrison
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kenya has proposed the introduction of mandatory Anti-Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness programs in colleges and universities across the country as part of a broader campaign strategy to combat GBV among young adults.
FIDA’s program officer, Virginia Kibunja, emphasized the urgent need to sensitise university students on GBV to protect them from what she described as the “triple threat”: a combination of societal, institutional, and peer-related pressures that contribute to GBV.
“As FIDA, we have received several femicide cases involving university students,” Kibunja said.
“Most of these cases are linked to harmful gender norms, which continue to affect our society. We aim to challenge and change these norms through the university system.”
Kibunja further noted that sexual harassment cases, such as female students being molested by lecturers in exchange for exam marks, must be addressed head-on.
She also highlighted the issue of female students seeking “sponsors” to support their financial needs, a practice she said perpetuates the cycle of sexual exploitation and GBV.
“We’re urging university management to promote open dialogue on GBV issues and calling on the government to intensify its efforts against these harmful practices, which are increasingly affecting female students.”
Kibunja spoke during a university dialogue hosted by FIDA at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) on Friday, July 25, 2025, where over 150 students from various coastal universities participated.
She described the response to the campaign so far as “very positive” and encouraging.
“We want students to understand that it’s neither normal nor acceptable to exchange sex for money,” she said.
“Introducing an academic unit on GBV will institutionalize awareness and prevention education among learners.”
Tabitha Njeri, a student and deputy president of the student council at TUM, echoed Kibunja’s sentiments.
She emphasized that the lack of awareness and empowerment has left many students vulnerable to GBV.
“The Commission for University Education should seriously consider introducing the proposed GBV unit and make it mandatory,” she said.
“Students need to know how to protect themselves, report abuse, and speak out against it.”
Mangale Masoud, Mombasa County Secretary General for Mount Kenya University (MKU), praised the initiative, noting that such forums are also helping male students understand their rights and responsibilities regarding GBV.
“Many men shy away from reporting when they are violated. These forums are eye-openers,” he said.
“We’ve learned the importance of speaking up and also avoiding becoming perpetrators of GBV.”
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