Female-led NGO, BLOOM Initiative, hosts menstrual sensitization programme in Kwara 

In a dedicated effort to educate, enlighten, and empower young girls, BLOOM Initiative has organized a menstrual sensitization programme in Kwara State.

The event, tagged: Menstrual Health Matters, was held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, and saw the participation of female secondary school students from Bishop Smith Memorial College, a foremost high school within the Ilorin metropolis.

In her welcome address, the founder of BLOOM Initiative, Miss Ibrahim Islamiyya, who is currently a doctoral candidate of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, underscored the significance of equipping young girls with essential knowledge that will empower them to excel as they progress through life.

“Our girls are our future. We must invest in their well-being. If we fail to educate them on how to lead a good life, we compromise not just their future but also the future of the world in its entirety,” she said.

“Also, the government cannot do it all, as we all have a role to play. The future of our young girls is everybody’s business. And, their menstrual education is a core part of the building block.”

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Annor Pat, Chief Counselor, University of Ilorin, provided insights on managing menstrual pains and addressing mental health concerns during the monthly flow.

Special guests at the event included the school principal, vice-principals, and teachers. 

In a goodwill message on the success recorded by the program, the school management eulogized the efforts of the organizers, and expressed their satisfaction at hosting what they described as an impactful and informative event within the school premises.

The event also featured speakers including Miss Habeeb Habeebah, Miss Taiwo Omoniyi, Miss Ruth, and Mrs Aderonke Ogunleti, a member of the Global Shapers Community, an Initiative of the World Economic Forum.

This event marks the maiden edition of BLOOM Initiative’s program for young girls, as the NGO seeks to provide educational and empowerment opportunities to women and girls across the North Central region of Nigeria.