Crisis Management and Safeguarding Committee

Purpose

• To establish an effective institutional mechanism for managing emergencies, crises, and safeguarding concerns involving students and members of the University community.
• To ensure safety, protection, dignity, and well-being during crisis situations.
• To coordinate timely prevention, response, recovery, and follow-up measures.

Objectives

• To identify and assess potential risks and crisis situations.
• To establish clear procedures for emergency response and safeguarding.
• To ensure timely communication and coordination during crises.
• To protect students and other members of the University community from harm, abuse, exploitation, harassment, and other safeguarding risks.
• To support recovery and continuity of essential University services following a crisis.

Scope

The Committee may address:

• Natural disasters, fire, accidents, and other emergencies.
• Serious health or safety incidents occurring within University premises.
• Violence, threats, or serious disturbances.
• Missing or vulnerable students requiring urgent assistance.
• Bullying, harassment, abuse, exploitation, or safeguarding concerns.
• Serious incidents involving students, faculty, staff, or visitors.
• Other emergency situations referred by the competent authority.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and periodically review crisis management and safeguarding procedures.
• Identify potential risks and recommend preventive and preparedness measures.
• Establish appropriate emergency response and communication mechanisms.
• Coordinate with relevant University offices, departments, security personnel, and external emergency services when necessary.
• Ensure appropriate immediate support and protection for affected students and individuals.
• Receive, assess, and appropriately refer safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure that serious incidents are handled promptly, fairly, confidentially, and in accordance with University policies and applicable laws.
• Recommend appropriate protective, corrective, or disciplinary measures to the competent authority.
• Maintain confidential records of crisis and safeguarding incidents.
• Ensure appropriate referral to counseling, medical, legal, or other professional support where necessary.
• Conduct post-incident reviews to identify lessons learned and recommend preventive measures.
• Organize awareness programs, emergency preparedness activities, and safeguarding training.
• Periodically review the effectiveness of crisis response and safeguarding mechanisms.

Safeguarding Principles

• Safety First: The immediate safety and well-being of affected persons shall be given priority.
• Confidentiality: Sensitive information shall be protected and shared only on a need-to-know basis, subject to applicable law and University policy.
• Non-Discrimination: All individuals shall be treated fairly and respectfully.
• Victim/Survivor-Centered Approach: Affected individuals shall be treated with dignity and provided appropriate support.
• Non-Retaliation: Individuals who raise genuine safeguarding concerns should be protected from retaliation.
• Due Process: Appropriate procedures shall be followed when investigating allegations and taking action.

Crisis Response

• Assess the nature, seriousness, and immediate risks associated with a crisis.
• Activate appropriate emergency response procedures.
• Ensure clear communication with students, staff, and relevant authorities.
• Coordinate evacuation, medical assistance, security, or other emergency measures where required.
• Establish appropriate follow-up and recovery arrangements after the immediate crisis.

Meetings

• The Committee shall meet regularly, preferably at least once each semester.
• Emergency meetings may be convened at any time in response to a serious incident or emerging crisis.
• Proceedings, decisions, and action points shall be properly documented.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Monitor the implementation of crisis management and safeguarding measures.
• Prepare periodic reports on preparedness activities, incidents, responses, and recommendations.
• Review lessons learned from incidents and update procedures where necessary.
• Submit reports and recommendations to the appropriate authority of WUB.

Expected Outcomes

• A safer and more secure University environment.
• Effective preparedness and timely response to emergencies and crises.
• Stronger safeguarding mechanisms for students and the wider University community.
• Improved coordination among University units during critical situations.
• Effective support, recovery, and continuous improvement following crises.