KIMEP promises not to punish students over harassment protest

KIMEP University in Kazakhstan has launched an internal investigation into economics professor Nadeem Naqvi. In response to an inquiry from Kursiv.media, university representatives commented on the controversy that emerged on social media after students shared information about the professor’s past in the U.S.

Read also: ‘Virgin list’ scandal returns to Central Asia’s largest university.

University administrators emphasized that no disciplinary action will be taken against students or staff members who raised concerns about the issue.

KIMEP said it is currently reviewing the information it has received and will determine any further actions after the review is complete.

How Naqvi was hired

The university also explained how Naqvi was able to secure employment in Kazakhstan despite allegations related to his past.

According to KIMEP, Naqvi submitted all documents required under Kazakh law during the hiring process. University officials said he successfully passed the selection committee’s review and provided an apostilled diploma, letters of recommendation, and a certificate showing no criminal record.

Questions surrounding dean’s resignation

Earlier, a KIMEP student shared a letter from Jason Gainous, dean of the College of Social Sciences, announcing his resignation. The letter, sent from Gainous’ university email account to students, stated that university administrators had ignored his inquiries regarding his colleague’s past.

KIMEP declined to comment on Gainous’ resignation.

Past allegations at the University of Georgia

Naqvi previously taught at the University of Georgia.

According to reports published by the university’s student newspaper, The Red & Black, the university initiated proceedings to dismiss Naqvi in 1999 following allegations that he sexually harassed a student. Naqvi denied the allegations. His employment contract was terminated later that year after the proceedings were completed.