Faculty Acquaintance of the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, Execution in Higher Education Institutions of Sindh

Abstract

The study aims at assessing the faculty's awareness of the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, rules of Harassment in the workplace, and the rules of complaints established within universities. The importance of fostering a respectful and secure learning setting in higher education institutions has increased in its role in achieving gender parity, workplace justice, and career health. The study used a quantitative data collection approach. Data was collected from 650 faculty members working in Higher Education Institutions of Sindh using a closed-ended questionnaire. Data collected were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-Square test to determine the level of awareness and institutional responsiveness in the context of policy on harassment. The findings showed that a significant number of faculty members are not aware of the institutional policy, reporting procedure, and Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010. The statistical analysis Chi-Square (χ² = 120.58, p <.05) indicates that the lack of understanding among faculty members is statistically significant. As far as workplace harassment prevention strategies are concerned, there are significant communication gaps, training gaps, and policy distribution gaps in the institutions. The conclusion is that in order to guarantee the successful implementation of workplace harassment policies, higher education institutions in Sindh must reinforce awareness campaigns, hold frequent training sessions, increase policy visibility, and set up efficient monitoring and support systems. For faculty members to work in a safe, welcoming, and supportive academic atmosphere, these steps are crucial.

Keywords: Codes Of Conduct, Workplace, Harassment, Awareness, Implementation.