A non-governmental organization, Children Empowerment Fund (CEF), has donated 3,750 sanitary pads to 150 girls at Ajoboyede Comprehensive High School, Ibara Orile, Ogun State.
The donation took place during a brief ceremony attended by officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Health, who supervised the distribution and educated the students on menstrual hygiene. During the event, CEF also launched the Red Bloom Box Project, aimed at addressing menstrual health challenges among young girls.
Speaking at the event, CEF’s Programme Manager, Mrs. Temitope Akinrotimi, highlighted the menstrual health crisis faced by many young girls due to poverty and lack of awareness. She noted that some resort to using newspapers, cotton wool, and other unsafe materials during their periods, which could harm their reproductive health.
“We initiated the Red Bloom Box Project after learning about the unhygienic materials some girls use during their periods. Many cannot afford sanitary pads, and some are not even aware they exist,” Akinrotimi said.
She emphasized that menstrual poverty prevents many girls from attending school, as some miss four to five days of classes each month due to a lack of proper menstrual products.
“We don’t just want to distribute pads and leave. We have provided a five-month supply for these 150 girls, ensuring they receive free sanitary pads each month through their designated teacher. Our goal is to extend this initiative to a full year.”
Akinrotimi also called on government agencies, sanitary pad manufacturers, and other organizations to support the cause and ensure that every girl has access to proper menstrual hygiene products.
The school’s Vice Principal, Mrs. Salmot Asekun, expressed gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging the significant challenges students face due to menstrual health issues.
“Many of our students are unaware of sanitary pads and use alternative materials because their parents cannot afford them. This donation will greatly improve their well-being and confidence.”
She urged other organizations to follow CEF’s example and contribute to improving menstrual health awareness and support in schools.
