The Lagos State Government has called for stronger promotion of personal hygiene and better protection of female pupils in public schools.
The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board in a statement on Sunday, said the message was reinforced during a two-day advocacy and sensitisation campaign aimed at improving hygiene and curbing sexual abuse among girls in public primary schools.
The programme, held at Christ Church Cathedral Primary School Hall, Lagos Island, and the LASUBEB Multi-Purpose Hall, Maryland, brought together pupils, teachers, and education stakeholders for discussions on girl-child safety, personal hygiene, and self-development.
In her welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic Education, Yewande Cole-Jeje, said the advocacy was designed to share vital knowledge on personal hygiene, self-development, and the fight against sexual abuse.
She said, “As girls, you shouldn’t limit yourselves, be courageous to take space in professional and leadership positions. You have the power to influence change and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting the girl child and ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment in all primary schools.
Shittu urged pupils to value and protect themselves from any form of harm or abuse.
“Your body is a treasure; you must value it and always protect it from any form of abuse and discomfort. Don’t allow anyone to take advantage of you. When you notice indecent gestures or movements, speak up,” Shittu said.
He added that the sensitisation programme aligned with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, particularly the education and technology pillar, which prioritises the well-being, safety, and empowerment of every child in Lagos State.
The Board Secretary, Hakeem Lamidi, described the initiative as a proactive and strategic step toward strengthening child protection at the foundational level of education.
One of the facilitators and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr. Oluwaoni Adeyemi, led the session on personal hygiene, urging the girls to adopt daily hygiene practices such as proper tooth brushing, regular bathing, and maintaining cleanliness during their menstrual cycle.
Dr. Grace Abolarin, who handled the session on advocacy against sexual abuse, advised the pupils to always speak up whenever they experience or notice any form of abuse. “Speaking up is the first step to healing and protection,” she said.
Source: Punch News
