Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education: Awareness and Practices

Gender-based violence (GBV) often goes unnoticed in education, including higher education. This research aims to explore the level of awareness among academic communities, particularly university leadership, and to identify academic practices that may constitute or enable GBV at two Indonesian universities. University X, a legal entity university on Java Island, and University Y, a non-legal entity university on Sumatra Island, were selected. Primary data were collected through in-depth interviews with university leaders, gender study centers, and sexual violence prevention task forces, while secondary data came from institutional records and reports. The findings reveal a complex relationship between awareness, academic practices, and institutional responses to GBV. While both universities show signs of progress in addressing GBV, significant gaps remain, particularly in awareness levels, prevention measures, and response mechanisms. Effective handling of GBV requires a holistic approach, combining targeted awareness campaigns, comprehensive victim support systems, and reforms in academic practices. University leadership has a vital role in shaping a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and safety to ensure that GBV is not only addressed but actively prevented within academic environments.