Riara University Takes Action After Viral Video of Alleged Off-Campus Assault

Riara University has launched an internal review after a video circulating online appeared to show several female individuals threatening and assaulting another woman in a public bathroom. 

In a statement on Friday, October 2, the university said the footage had drawn attention to the institution after reports emerged that some of the individuals shown could be students at the university. 

"It has come to our attention that some of the individuals depicted in the video are reportedly students at Riara University," the statement read.

Riara University said it did not condone violence or any form of conduct that could undermine the safety and dignity of others.

"Riara University unequivocally condemns violence, intimidation, bullying, harassment or misconduct in any form," the statement added.

According to the university, the reported incident was alleged to have occurred away from its premises. 

However, it said conduct involving its students could still have implications under the institution's rules and values.

"While the alleged event occurred off-campus, such behaviour directly contradicts our institutional values and our code of conduct for students," the statement further read.

Riara University said its leadership had begun reviewing the matter under the applicable student disciplinary framework.

"The University leadership has initiated an internal review of the matter in accordance with our Student Code of Conduct and institutional policies, and we are committed to cooperation with investigative authorities," the statement concluded.

This comes months after Merishaw School issued a statement addressing a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows a bullying incident at the institution. 

In the statement on Monday, March 16, the school explained the origin of the video and distanced the current school environment from the incident shown.

"It has come to our attention that an old video is circulating on social media claiming incidents at our school. We want to make it absolutely clear that the video is old and does not reflect the current environment at our school," the statement read.

The school also addressed the disciplinary action that was taken against the students involved at the time of the incident.

"The students involved were fully disciplined and expelled in line with our school policies. Our school does not tolerate bullying in any form; every student is safe, respected, and protected while on campus," the statement added.

Merishaw School further outlined measures it says are in place to safeguard the welfare of its students and prevent similar incidents.

"We have robust measures in place to ensure the well-being and security of all students, including regular staff training, surveillance, and a proactive reporting system," the statement continued.

The institution concluded by reiterating its commitment to safety, discipline, and maintaining a supportive learning environment.

"We are proud of our school community, our students, and our staff. Safety, discipline, and excellence remain our top priorities. We thank all parents, guardians, and stakeholders for trusting us to provide a safe and nurturing environment," the statement concluded.