Wits mum on reports of professor found guilty of sexual harassment

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has refused to comment on reports that one of its senior professors has been found guilty of sexual harassment by an external panel of investigators.

EWN reported on Tuesday that the professor, who is reportedly in a position of authority and influence at the institution, was found guilty of sexually harassing three of his female colleagues after they had lodged complaints of sexual harassment with the university’s gender equity officer late last year.

Wits spokesperson Shirona Patel said the institution would not comment on any process involving its staff members until all processes were finalised, which could be later this week.

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The complainants accused the professor of using his position and influence to try to persuade them to partake in sexual activities with him and one other person.

It is alleged that he did not only make sexual advances on the women, two female lecturers and an office administrator, he also promised to promote them at work and help them to study further through the institution.