‘Professional conduct…’: Oxford University bans close student-staff relationship | World News - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

‘Professional conduct…’: Oxford University bans close student-staff relationship

Mar 11, 2023 02:26 PM IST

Oxford University News: The ban follows demands to look into "inappropriate relationships" made by the anti-sexual assault group called It Happens Here, a student union at Oxford University.

The University of Oxford banned intimate relationships between the members of its staff and students, BBC reported. The decision was taken after reviewing the prior policy of "strongly discouraging" relations, the report said, adding that the institution will begin enforcing the new rule from April 17 this year.

Oxford University News: Oxford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. (Unsplash)
Oxford University News: Oxford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. (Unsplash)

Read more: Women entitled to swim topless in Berlin’s public pools, city authorities rule

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Additionally, the report said that the institution will continue to inform staff members that they cannot create any personal ties with students which might be judged outside "professional conduct". The policy also entails disciplinary action against anyone who flouts the new rule. Earlier, in the Oxford University relationships between staff members and students were permitted and had to be declared to a line manager.

Read more: Who are the 2 Indian-American CEOs appointed to Biden's advisory committee?

In case of an ongoing relation, the BBC reported that the university will handle them by avoiding conflicts of interest which means that no staff member will be assigned any responsibility for a student with whom they had a close or intimate relationship.

The ban follows demands to look into "inappropriate relationships" made by the anti-sexual assault group called It Happens Here, a student union at Oxford University.

Such relationships "raise issues relating to inequalities of power in a relationship, or perceived favouritism, or the undermining of trust in the academic process," the student group said, the Telegraph reported.

Other institutions like University College London and the University of Nottingham also have similar rules in place.

Unlock a world of Benefits with HT! From insightful newsletters to real-time news alerts and a personalized news feed – it's all here, just a click away! - Login Now!

Get Latest World News along with Latest News from India at Hindustan Times.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
  • ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    author-default-90x90

    When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?"

SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Friday, March 29, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On