Ms. Nafisa Nasar, Program and Research Associate and focal person for Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) at ICRMS, facilitated two interactive sessions with the 2025 Crash Course students on 28 and 29 May. The sessions were based on the interagency training module “Saying No to Sexual Misconduct” and aimed at enhancing awareness and understanding of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment within humanitarian settings. Through the use of real-life-inspired case studies like Afrida’s Story, group discussions, role plays, and reflective exercises, students explored the concepts of power dynamics, the six core principles of PSEA, and the importance of victim-centered approaches. Nafisa emphasized the roles and responsibilities of humanitarian workers and students in upholding ethical standards, particularly in environments where vulnerable populations rely heavily on aid services.
The sessions also encouraged students to examine their own organizational policies on misconduct and reflect on both visible and invisible impacts of abuse on victims. By engaging in group activities such as power walk exercises and testimonial analysis, participants gained practical insight into how identity, gender, and institutional hierarchies can influence vulnerability and accountability. Nafisa concluded the training by reiterating the significance of reporting mechanisms and supportive environments to address and prevent SEA, ensuring that future humanitarian professionals are equipped with both the knowledge and empathy needed to respond effectively to such challenges.
Reported by
Nafisa Nasruddin
Program and Research Associate
ICRMS-BUITEMS