Abstract

The rate of sexual harassment against female students in Nigeria tertiary institutions is becoming increasingly worrisome. Despite the progress that is being made to avert the problem of sexual harassment in schools all over the world, it still remains a big challenge and various cases of sexual harassment have been reported at Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti where female students are equally more vulnerable to sexual harassment than male students. It is clear that sexual harassment comes along with various effects not only on the side of the students but also the integrity of the Polytechnic at large. This study therefore sought to establish the effects of sexual harassment on the academic performance of female students in Nigerian tertiary institutions with a focus on Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti. The study employed a cross-sectional case study design to collect both qualitative and quantitative approaches in collecting data from the female students of the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti. Findings revealed that the most common form of harassment experienced is unwanted physical touch, followed closely by verbal comments and intimidation; there is clear evidence that sexual harassment in Nigerian tertiary institutions significantly disrupts normal patterns of class attendance and participation; there is an overwhelming consensus among respondents that sexual harassment is not just a personal violation but an academic one, where grades are used as a weapon for coercion and punishment; in addition finding shows that sexual harassment acts as a significant cognitive barrier, and disrupts concentration, creates mental blocks towards understanding course material. The implication of these findings is that sexual harassment is not a minor or perceived issue; it is a widespread and severely impactful phenomenon in Nigeria tertiary institutions with real consequences across multiple facets of student life. Hence it was recommended that management in tertiary institutions should launch an awareness campaign by means of posters, seminars, and student orientations to clearly define sexual harassment, outline reporting procedures, and affirm the institution’s zero-tolerance policy. Also, there should be provision of emergency counselling to create psychological support services easily accessible and specifically advertised for victims of harassment.