EDOPOLY: SUG PRO Celebrates World Menstrual Hygiene Day with "Pad a Girl" Initiative

EDOPOLY: SUG PRO Celebrates World Menstrual Hygiene Day with "Pad a Girl" Initiative

Usen, Edo State; The Public Relations Officer of the Student Union Government (SUG), Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, Comr. Godwin Precious, has commemorated World Menstrual Hygiene Day with a "Pad a Girl" campaign aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene awareness and supporting female students within the institution.

The event commenced with a rally from the front gate of the Polytechnic and witnessed a massive turnout of students and staff members who participated in the awareness campaign on the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during menstruation.

The programme attracted several distinguished guests, including Barr. (Mrs.) Ese Esther Oriarewo, Director of Legal Services and immediate past Director of the Centre for Women Development and Gender Studies, and Mrs. Osagai Philomena, the current Director of the Centre for Women Development and Gender Studies, Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, among other dignitaries.

Speaking to students at the female hostel, Barr. Esther emphasized the importance of maintaining proper menstrual hygiene and encouraged female students not to view menstruation as a limitation or disadvantage. She stressed that menstruation is a natural biological process and should not subject any girl or woman to stigma or discrimination.

According to her, girls who properly manage their menstrual health can confidently pursue their academic and personal goals without hindrance.

Also addressing the students, Mrs. Osagai Philomena educated participants on best menstrual hygiene practices and cautioned against the improper disposal of used sanitary pads and other menstrual waste in hostel toilets. She urged students to adopt responsible waste disposal habits to ensure a clean and healthy environment.

The interactive session provided an opportunity for students to ask questions and receive expert guidance from the guest speakers. One of the participants, Mr. Kuti Solomon, popularly known as "Mighty Shalom," asked whether it was advisable to provide sweet treats for his fiancée during her menstrual period, as she often craves them. Responding, Barr. Esther explained that while there is no harm in offering such support and care, excessive consumption of sugary foods during menstruation is generally not recommended.

The event was widely applauded by students, who described it as enlightening and impactful. The programme concluded with celebrations, music, dancing, and the distribution of hundreds of sanitary pads to female hostel residents as part of efforts to promote menstrual health and support the well-being of female students.

The "Pad a Girl" initiative reaffirmed the commitment of the Student Union Government and the institution to promoting health awareness, gender inclusion, and the welfare of students across the Polytechnic community.