Ijesa Youth Forum Reaches Over 300 Girls Through Menstrual Hygiene Initiative in Imesi-Ile

 

The Ijesa Youth Forum has reached more than 300 girls through its Pad Up a Girl Child Initiative, organised in Imesi-Ile, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child.

The programme, held on Thursday, October 15, focused on menstrual hygiene education, personal development, the prevention of child marriage and the promotion of girls' rights.

The initiative was designed to educate young girls on menstrual health, encourage them to become responsible and empowered women, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting girls from harmful practices that threaten their well-being and development.

In a statement issued after the programme, the National Executive Council of the Ijesa Youth Forum expressed appreciation to individuals, community leaders and organisations whose contributions helped make the initiative a success.

The forum particularly acknowledged the support and hospitality of the Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Enoch Ademola Akinyemi, Oyoyo II, commending his encouragement and commitment to initiatives aimed at promoting the welfare, dignity and development of the girl child.

The organisation also appreciated the Imesi-Ile Progressive Association (IPA) for its support and participation in the programme.

It further recognised the contributions of Imesi-Ile youths, led by Comrade John Rotimi Fakanlu, as well as members of the Ijesa Youth Forum who participated in the outreach.

The forum also extended its gratitude to financial supporters whose contributions helped facilitate the programme.

According to the organisation, the Pad Up a Girl Child Initiative goes beyond the distribution of sanitary pads, serving as a platform to promote menstrual hygiene, protect the dignity of girls, raise awareness about menstrual health and address challenges that may interfere with their education and personal development.

The forum stressed that menstrual health should not become a barrier to girls' participation in education and other opportunities, emphasising the need for sustained community support and awareness.

As an organisation committed to youth development and community advancement, the Ijesa Youth Forum said it remained encouraged by the support received and expressed its readiness to collaborate with stakeholders on future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people.

The statement was signed by Bepo Joy Adebimpe, spokesperson for the Ijesa Youth Forum, on behalf of its National Executive Council.

The initiative highlights the role of youth-led organisations and community stakeholders in advancing girls' rights, promoting menstrual health education and encouraging a supportive environment for the development of the girl child.