Equipping Africa’s science that solves Africa’s developmental challenges
Login Become a Member
PSEAH & Child Protection || African Science Frontiers Initiatives (ASFI)

PSEAH & Child Protection

Zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and child abuse — upholding dignity and safety for all.

01

Policy Statement

African Science Frontiers Initiatives maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and child abuse in all forms. Every staff member, volunteer, vendor, and partner is required to uphold the highest ethical standards in their interactions with beneficiaries, colleagues, and community members. Protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, is at the core of our mission.

02

Purpose

  • Prevent and respond to SEAH and child abuse within our organizational programs
  • Protect vulnerable individuals and uphold their dignity and rights
  • Ensure compliance with international safeguarding standards
03

Scope

  • All employees, consultants, volunteers, interns, contractors, and partner organizations
  • All organizational activities, including physical, virtual, and community engagements
04

Guiding Principles

Zero Tolerance: No compromise on SEAH or child abuse
Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of all parties
Do No Harm: Prioritize beneficiary well-being
Accountability: All staff responsible for compliance
05

Definitions

Sexual Exploitation: Abuse of vulnerability or power for sexual purposes
Sexual Abuse: Physical intrusion of a sexual nature
Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances creating hostile environment
Child Protection: Measures to prevent harm to children under 18
06

Prohibited Behaviors

  • Engaging in sexual relationships with beneficiaries, particularly minors (under 18)
  • Requesting or offering sexual favors in exchange for services, aid, or employment
  • Making sexually suggestive comments, jokes, or gestures
  • Viewing, sharing, or distributing child sexual abuse material
  • Failing to report suspected or actual cases of SEAH or child abuse
07

Prevention Measures

Recruitment: Pre-employment checks, background verification
Training: Mandatory SEAH and child protection training
Code of Conduct: Signed commitment by all personnel
Community Awareness: Beneficiaries informed of rights
08

Reporting & Response

  • Reporting Channels: Accessible, confidential mechanisms (hotline, email)
  • Whistleblower Protection: No retaliation against good-faith reporting
  • Investigation: Prompt, impartial, and confidential process
  • Support Services: Psychological, medical, and legal assistance for victims
09

Annex 1 — Code of Conduct

All staff, registered members, volunteers, ambassadors, speakers, vendors, contractors, and partners must:

  • Treat all individuals with respect and dignity
  • Never engage in sexual activity with children (under 18 years), beneficiaries, or vulnerable persons
  • Never request or accept sexual favors in exchange for services, money, or opportunities
  • Report any suspicion or knowledge of SEAH or child abuse immediately
  • Maintain confidentiality and protect whistleblowers

Incident Reporting Form

Use this confidential form to report any incidents of sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, or child abuse. All reports are treated with strict confidentiality.

Safeguarding Contact Information

Reach out to our Safeguarding Officer for any concerns or support

Safeguarding Officer: Mrs. Lizzy Onyenweaku (ASFI Director of HR and Financial Matters)
Email: admin@africansciencefrontiers.com
Phone Number: +234 701 436 3223
Alternative Contact: finance@africansciencefrontiers.com
Your safety is our priority