IPB on Alleged Sexual Harassment of Student: 2024 Case, Mediation Involved

IPB University is delving into the alleged sexual harassment case involving a student in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FTT).

Director of Cooperation, Communication, and Marketing at IPB University, Alfian Helmi, stated that any form of conduct degrading human dignity, including gender-based harassment, whether online or offline, cannot be tolerated.

Based on initial investigations, the incident occurred in 2024 in a student group. The conversation in the group contained inappropriate comments towards a female student. IPB acknowledges that mediation efforts are underway.

“The victim was aware of the group’s existence and has attempted to resolve the issue through mediation facilitated by a senior,” Alfian said, quoting detikcom on Thursday (16/4).

Alfian noted that IPB understands the previous mediation process did not fully satisfy the victim’s sense of justice. Subsequently, the victim officially reported the incident to the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FTT) at IPB University on 15 April 2026.

“IPB University is committed to ensuring a more comprehensive, just, and victim-oriented handling process,” he revealed.

As a form of responsibility, the campus emphasises several commitments, including:

1. Prioritising the victim’s safety and recovery, including psychological and academic support;

2. Taking firm action against any violations of the student code of ethics in accordance with applicable provisions;

3. Ensuring an objective, transparent, and accountable handling process;

4. Preventing all forms of intimidation, pressure, or stigma against the victim or reporter;

5. Strengthening education and a campus culture that respects equality and the dignity of every individual.

Since the first report was received yesterday, IPB has taken handling steps, starting with fact-finding and summoning relevant parties, securing relevant evidence, and activating the ethical violation handling mechanism at the faculty and institutional levels.

“IPB University invites all parties to exercise restraint and respect the ongoing handling process so that this case can be resolved properly. IPB University also invites the entire campus community to jointly maintain a safe, inclusive, and mutually respectful academic environment. The campus is a learning space that must be free from all forms of violence and discrimination,” he stated.

Previously, social media was abuzz with screenshots of a group chat allegedly belonging to Mechanical Engineering and Biosystems students at IPB University. The conversation content veered into sexual harassment. The campus immediately conducted an investigation regarding the allegations.

The message conversation post went viral on social media X, with several students including sensitive words degrading women’s body parts in the chat.

Alfian Helmi stated that the campus condemns behaviour that degrades a person’s dignity and status. He said IPB is delving into the sexual harassment case that has become a topic of public discussion.

“Regarding the report of an alleged sexual harassment case among students discussed on social media, IPB University condemns all forms of behaviour that degrade human dignity and status. Currently, IPB University is taking steps to handle the alleged sexual harassment case in question,” Alfian said.