GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA LAUNCHES "SENSITIZE THE BOY-CHILD" INITIATIVE

GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA LAUNCHES "SENSITIZE THE BOY-CHILD" INITIATIVE

... As Programme Flags Off in Three Secondary Schools in Ondo City

In a pivotal move toward the holistic development of young boys, the Ondo State Government, under the visionary leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has launched a sensitization programme focused on the boy-child.

The programme was officially flagged off in three secondary schools in Ondo City: Ondo Boys High School, Ondo Anglican Grammar School and St. Joseph’s College

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Bosede Osamaye, stated that the initiative aims to instill positive values, enhance emotional intelligence, foster behavioral changes, and equip boys with essential life skills needed to navigate societal pressures effectively.

She emphasized the state government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering all children to reach their full potential, irrespective of gender, by ensuring that the unique needs of the boy-child are identified and addressed.

The event was warmly received by students, teachers, and principals, who expressed excitement and appreciation for the impactful programme.

Stakeholders from the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Ondo State Agency for Gender-Based Violence led interactive sessions to educate the boys on critical life skills.

Experts spoke on emotional intelligence, introducing the RULER framework as a tool for developing this essential skill: Recognize emotions, enderstand their causes, label them accurately, express emotions appropriately and regulate them effectively

Barrister Afolabi, Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV), addressed the topic of anger management, emphasizing that while anger is a natural emotion, failing to control it has led many young men into trouble and correctional centers. She urged students to develop healthy coping mechanisms and seek help when struggling with emotions.

At St. Joseph’s College, Professor Bridget Awosika led a discussion on resisting negative peer pressure, offering practical strategies to help students make informed and independent decisions.

Similarly, Mr. Oladeji Olorunsola, Director of Research and Documentation, spoke on attitudinal change, reiterating the importance of good behavior and character.

The event was graced by notable political leaders in Ondo West, especially women from the local government. Among them were: Chief Mrs. Olaoye (Aserere) – Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor, Erelu Abimbola Oshifeso – Secretary to the Local Government, Chief Mrs. Biola Fayehun – APC Local Government Women Leader, Mrs. Udoh Olawoye – Special Assistant on Mobilization, Mama Buje Budanu and Over 40 other appointees and strategic women stakeholders and leaders

They all commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for initiating the programme at a crucial time and expressed their unwavering support.

The Ministry’s team was also well represented, including all directors of the Ministry and selected leaders of the O’Datiwa Women Initiatives, notably: Hon. Sarah Esakumoh – SSA to the Governor on Women Affairs, Chief Adeniran Kehinde (KK) – Former SSA to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Bosede Akinboyede – SA Mobilization, Chief Mrs. Silifat Sobowale, Nurse Omowunmi Fadairo, Alhaja Yusuf Mariam and many more

This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant step in shaping the future of young boys in Ondo State, ensuring they grow into responsible, emotionally intelligent, and well-rounded individuals.