Lecturer Harasses Female Student, UIN Walisongo Vice Rector: We Are Bruised and Battered by the News Coverage

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, SEMARANG – The Vice Rector III of Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Walisongo Semarang, Umul Baroroh, has spoken out regarding the extensive media coverage of the alleged sexual harassment case perpetrated by a lecturer against a female student at the campus. According to her, this has tarnished the image of UIN Walisongo.

“At present, we are already scarred; UIN is scarred, it’s in a terrible state, battered everywhere. Not just the victim, but we are all battered by this, everyone is bruised due to the news coverage,” said Umul when attending a public dialogue and free forum organised by UIN Walisongo students to discuss cases of sexual violence on campus, on Monday (11/5/2026).

She added that the alleged sexual harassment case by the lecturer, which is currently dragging UIN Walisongo into controversy, is something no one desires. “This is not an issue that we all want. We do not want it, we hate it, we do not like it,” she stated.

“Therefore, our response is certainly not to remain silent, but to conduct an investigation, take action, and of course, everything must be done carefully,” Umul added.

She explained that there is currently a Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Regulation (Permendikbudristek) that governs the prevention and handling of violence cases in educational environments. This regulation not only covers sexual harassment or violence but also bullying practices.

“When it has already happened, for example, if proven, sanctions will certainly be imposed in accordance with the applicable regulations,” said Umul.