Students and staff on campus at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) are being warned about a sexual assault. Protective services received a report of the incident occurring on campus Thursday morning.
Shortly after 1 p.m. CT, an email was sent out to students at the U of S notifying them of a reported sexual assault that happened at an on-campus residence early Thursday morning in the vicinity of Saskatchewan Hall.
READ MORE: U of S issues warning after ‘out-of-control’ off-campus party
University representatives say they’re investigating the assault and support is being provided to the alleged harmed student.
“Our message out to students is come and get help. We will support you, we will treat you with respect and we will allow you to control what happens to your information,” Patti McDougall, U of S teaching and learning vice provost.
No details yet on the ages or genders of those involved.
Police are aware of the sexual assault, but can’t file a report until they speak to the alleged victim.
The incident comes days before protective services at the university is staged to present the new sexual assault policy and procedures during Sexual Awareness Week: Sept. 19 – 23.
Campus activities include: Bystander intervention training, a panel discussion on rape culture and a concert for consent.
The policy, which was finalized in spring, will more clearly define what is sexual assault, consent and what’s required for someone to give consent. The document will also outline all protocol that should be followed in the event of a sexual assault.
“The primary goal of our protocol is to get people to come for help when they’ve been sexually victimized. We’ll work with that victim to determine which steps they wish to take,” McDougall said.
According to the Canadian Federation of Students, one in five women experience sexual assault while attending a post-secondary institution and the majority of assaults happen during the first eight weeks of first year.
Eleven sexual assaults have been reported at the University of Saskatchewan between 2009-14.
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