|
In this issue of Notes, reporters investigate safety on campus. Reporters asked students across universities in the UAE whether they feel safe on campus, and the majority asserted that they did, more so than they would have on campuses in their home countries. This is mainly due to the safety of the city and country in which these universities are based — and the students realise that that is one less factor to worry about here.
This does not mean, however, that campuses are free from any violence. Breakouts of violence have taken place between groups of students; minor robberies might have happened here and there, but overall, there were no grave incidents that jeopardised students' personal safety on campus.
For female students, in most cases, there will always be a story to tell. Asked whether they have been in any uncomfortable situations, many hesitated before they said that they hadn't. "Other than unwanted comments by random guys, it's very secure" was the comment of most females.
This scenario is not new to university campuses; in fact incidents here tend to be much milder than in major cities across the globe. 'Staring' and 'random comments by guys as we pass by' are acts that women have grown accustomed to — justified or not, it is something they learn to accept and live with, in most cases anyway.
However, even these incidents are considered a form, albeit mild, of harassment. And this is something girls need to be aware of for their own safety and peace of mind. The fact that it is coming from 'young, silly boys' does not excuse it.
And there is more than one way to deal with the situation. For one, these incidents can be reported to Campus Security offices. If ever you feel you are in a place where you are not safe, do not hesitate to follow your instincts and report such activities.
Also, although self-defence workshops are not common in universities, you can enrol at any local gymnasium or club and learn the very basic skills for personal safety. Probability is, in a safe environment, you may never have to use them, but it's good to take precautions and trust your instincts.
|
