By Maxwell Oyekunle
In a bid to promote health, dignity, and confidence among adolescent girls, the Oyo State Government has embarked on a capacity-building programme aimed at improving menstrual hygiene management in schools and communities across Egbeda and Ona-Ara Local Government Areas.
The initiative, implemented through the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA) in collaboration with UNICEF Lagos Field Office and Hershima & Partners, forms part of the broader Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) campaign targeted at young girls and adolescents.
Speaking at the training held at the Local Government Staff Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan, the General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. Adeduntan Mumini, said the exercise is designed to educate girls on managing their menstrual and general health responsibly.
He appreciated UNICEF for its continued funding and technical support to the state government in various developmental areas, noting that the training also engages parents, community, and faith leaders to ensure sustainable impact.
The Lead Facilitator of the training and Chief Executive Officer of Hershima & Partners, Mrs Ada Oko-Williams, described the programme as a success, commending the discipline and focus displayed by the pupils as well as the cooperation of stakeholders, teachers, and principals.
She expressed delight at how quickly the participants embraced the Human-Centred Design Approach, applying it to develop innovative ideas, solutions, and physical products that address challenges in menstrual hygiene management.
Two participating teachers, Mr. Julius Adejumo of Community High School 2, Elekuro, and Mrs. Oluwabunmi Afolabi of Community High School, Sawia, Olorunsogo, said the training has equipped them to better address stigmatization and dispel myths surrounding menstruation.
Also sharing their experiences, Opemiposi Abiola and Taiwo Adeleke, both students from participating schools, said they learnt practical ways to maintain menstrual hygiene, produce reusable sanitary pads, and mentor other girls on proper hygiene practices.
Highlight of the event was the display and demonstration of the innovative ideas, physical products, and solutions developed by the participating students and schools—showcasing their creativity and understanding of menstrual health challenges.
Our correspondent reports that the training underscores Oyo State’s commitment to advancing girls’ education and well-being through inclusive WASH initiatives supported by UNICEF and other development partners.
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