By Emmanuel Olagunju
Corps Members serving in Ondo East Local Government Area of the state have sensitized secondary school students on menstrual and personal hygiene.
The sensitization programme themed “Paddling a Girl/personal hygiene” was held on Thursday at Ekimogun Community Grammar School and Ogo Oluwa Secondary School, simultaneously.
Speaking on the initiative, the Team Lead , Igwe Emmanuel Chinwoso, said the program was meant to educate young girls on proper menstrual management and hygiene practices, while also teaching both boys and girls the importance of maintaining personal cleanliness.
In her submission, Aigbomian Glory Onoguekhian, hinted that the sensitization was not just for students but also beneficial to teachers and corps members. “Everyone can learn from this program. Hygiene is a universal practice, and instilling it early in students will yield lasting results,” she stated.
Other speakers at the event , emphasized the significance of personal hygiene in preventing diseases and boosting confidence. They explained that many students lack adequate knowledge of hygiene, adding that the program will help the students to develop habits that will improve their health and well-being.
The speakers equally highlighted the importance of teaching the girl child how to correctly use and dispose sanitary pads.
Speaking on behalf of the students ,a Senior Prefect, Ekimogun Community Grammar School, Felix Mary and Mr Noah Oboden, hinted that poor hygiene practices could lead to body odor and embarrassment, which may affect students’ social lives and self-esteem.
They expressed gratitude to the instructors for impactful presentations and valuable lessons learned .
The program is expected to have both short-term and long-term impacts on the beneficiaries. While students are also expected to spread this awareness to their peers and communities, thereby fostering healthier practices across society.
