IPB Suspends 16 Students Over Alleged Harassment Case in Group Chat

Rector of IPB University, Alim Setiawan Slamet, stated that the institution is seriously investigating the case of alleged sexual harassment in a student group chat. He noted that the campus will prioritise the victims.

“IPB is fully committed to strengthening prevention and handling of cases systematically, ensuring every process is transparent, accountable, and participatory by involving student elements. We stand with the victims, protect, restore, and ensure their rights are fulfilled without compromise. The campus must be a safe, comfortable, and dignified space for the entire academic community,” Alim said in a written statement on Monday (20/4/2026).

He mentioned that the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FTT) at IPB University, Slamet Budijanto, has imposed sanctions on the perpetrators. A total of 16 students have been sanctioned.

“Based on the examination results from the team, there are 16 students identified as involved in violations of campus life regulations and sexual harassment against female students. This incident occurred in 2024 and was officially reported to the institution on 14 April 2026,” he explained.

“Based on the examination process and available evidence, the FTT then imposed sanctions in the form of suspension for one semester on the 16 students proven to be involved, imposed on 17 April 2026,” he added.

The sanctions are intended to serve as a deterrent. Director of Cooperation, Communication, and Marketing at IPB University, Alfian Helmi, stated that the institution prioritises recovery for the victims.

“Restoration of victims’ rights, both in academic and social aspects; provision of psychological counselling and ongoing support; assurance of protection from pressure, intimidation, or stigma; and strengthening safe spaces for victims and reporters,” he said.

Previously, social media was abuzz with screenshots from a group chat allegedly belonging to IPB Mechanical Engineering and Biosystems students. The content of the conversations in the group veered towards sexual harassment. The campus conducted an investigation into the allegations.

The post of these message conversations went viral, as seen by detikcom on Wednesday (15/4), on social media platform X. Several students included sensitive words belittling women’s body parts in the conversations.