An NGO, Akoni Care Foundation, has donated 500 exercise books and awarded scholarships to 30 male students in SSS 1 and SSS 2 of Universal Basic Education Secondary School, Gadumo, Lokoja in Kogi.

The foundation also donated 300 sanitary pads to female students of the school, emphasising proper hygiene and empowerment for both male and female genders.

Speaking to students during the presentation on Monday, the Foundation’s Executive Director, Ms Deborah Agbonika, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to the welfare and development of boys and girls.

She emphasised that empowering young people remained central to building a healthier and more productive society.

“Akoni Care Foundation will continue to empower both the girl‑child and the boy‑child so that together they can contribute to the nation of our dreams.

“The scholarship programme aims to keep boys focused on education, while the sanitary pads and hygiene education for girls seek to eliminate menstrual‑related absenteeism,” she said.

Agbonika urged the girls to make proper use of the sanitary pads provided.

She added: “We expect our girls to manage their menstrual health carefully. Good hygiene keeps them healthy and prevents unnecessary absenteeism from school.

“Menstruation should never be a barrier to their education”.

A Facilitator, Oyiza Bello, urged the girls to change pads every six hours, bathe twice daily, and avoid internal soap use to prevent infections, telling them “You are beautiful, smart and the leaders of tomorrow”.

The Principal of the school, Mrs Christiana Basagi, praised the initiative and expressed deep appreciation to the foundation, describing it as a timely and impactful intervention.

She emphasised that it would reduce financial burden on parents and boost the overall wellbeing of the students.