University of Évora Engages Students in Controversial Professor Harassment Case

University of Évora Investigates Harassment Allegations

The University of Évora is currently evaluating the situation of a professor from the Hot Clube de Portugal who has been accused of harassment by a student. The institution's communication department confirmed that they are in the process of consulting students regarding the professor's position.

The professor has offered to resign from his role as the director of the Jazz Association of Leiria (AJL), but the association has decided to retain him, as stated in a recent announcement.

Current Status of the Investigation

According to the university, the rector Hermínia Vasconcelos Vilar is actively speaking with students before making a final decision. There were no formal complaints until recently, and the university has not received any new allegations as of now.

The university had previously indicated it was unaware of the situation until it was reported in the news. The recent media coverage has shed light on the professor's departure from the Hot Clube during the 2021/2022 academic year and included testimonies from former students.

AJL's Position and Community Reaction

In a Facebook statement, the AJL confirmed meeting with the accused professor and stated that the majority voted against his removal. This situation has sparked a wave of informal complaints regarding harassment in the Portuguese music scene, particularly in jazz.

The AJL has condemned the alleged behaviors reported in the media and emphasized that such matters should be addressed in court, vowing to report any harassment cases they become aware of, although no formal complaints have been lodged yet.

Community Discontent

The community in both Évora and Leiria has expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation is being handled. There are claims of persistent harassment via messages to students, and the AJL's leadership has faced criticism for their response.

Recently, Paulo Santo, a vibraphonist and fellow teacher at the Hot Clube, announced his resignation from the AJL's board due to disagreement with the association's stance.

The accused professor has not yet responded to requests for comments as of the publication of this report.