FUNAAB Partners Rotary to Equip FUNIS Girls, Others with Menstrual Health Knowledge

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Abeokuta Prestige, has taken a significant step towards addressing menstrual health awareness among young girls through the second phase of the Red Safe Project.

The event, held today, March 13, 2026, at the FUNAAB International School (FUNIS), was designed to empower schoolgirls in Odeda Local Government Area with the knowledge, confidence, and resources needed to manage menstruation with dignity.

Speaking at the Opening Ceremony, the President of the Rotary Club of Abeokuta Prestige, Rtn. Adedayo Ayegbokiki explained that the project was deliberately extended to schools within the Odeda Local Government Area to reach girls in underserved communities. According to him, the theme of the programme, “Empowering Girls with Knowledge and Confidence to Manage Periods Effectively,” was carefully chosen to address the silence and misconceptions often associated with adolescent reproductive health.

He noted that limited access to accurate information, societal stigma, and inadequate sanitary materials frequently contribute to school absenteeism and reduced self-confidence among female students.

Rtn. Ayegbokiki stated that the project was designed to tackle these challenges by combining education with practical support, stressing that no girl’s education should be disrupted by a natural biological process. He explained that the reusable pads were hygienic, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective, noting that they had been tested and approved by relevant State agencies to ensure their safety and quality.

The programme featured expert-led sessions facilitated by specialists from the University’s Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC). In the first presentation, Dr. Oluwatosin Adeyeye delivered a session on menstrual hygiene management, educating the students on the importance of planning for their menstrual cycles by ensuring access to sanitary pads and maintaining proper personal hygiene.

Similarly, Mrs. Rukayat Abdulsallam addressed issues relating to self-esteem and body confidence, encouraging the students to value themselves based on their character and abilities rather than unrealistic standards often portrayed on social media. She reminded them that being a girl is a source of strength and encouraged the development of positive self-esteem and supportive friendships.

In another session, Dr. Olubukola Idowu spoke on personal safety and boundaries. She also guided the students on tracking their menstrual cycles, proper disposal of sanitary materials, and the importance of hand hygiene, while encouraging them to remain confident and resilient.

A major highlight of the event was the distribution of reusable sanitary pads to 200 senior secondary school girls drawn from four schools: FUNIS, Muslim High School, Isolu; Salawu Abiola Comprehensive High School; and Nawair-ud-Deen Grammar School, Obantoko. The project was implemented in collaboration with international partners, the Rotary Club of Whitburn and the Rotary Club of Livingston, both in Scotland, United Kingdom.

The event attracted notable personalities, including the Director of AMREC, Prof. Jacob Olaoye; Dr. Olamide Adeosun; former Rotary Club President, Mr. Adewole Oduwole; and Chief Jimoh Lateef (Jimlat), among others. The programme also featured interactive sessions, testimonies from participants, and engaging discussions.