Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Monday launched a male-child sensitization initiative aimed at fostering attitudinal change, promoting gender equality, and challenging traditional patriarchal norms.
Speaking at the event in Ondo town, Ondo West Local Government Area, the governor represented by his Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to gender equality and ensuring that all children, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The program, which was introduced in Ondo Boys High School, Ondo Anglican Grammar School, and St. Joseph’s College, signifies a shift from the conventional focus on girls’ empowerment to also addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by boys.
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Aiyedatiwa explained that the initiative is designed to enhance emotional intelligence, anger management, and peer influence awareness among young boys, equipping them with essential life skills to build healthier relationships and communities.
“This program is set to reach 1,000 students from each of the 18 local government areas in the state, with a minimum target of 18,000 students,” he said.
The initiative seeks to educate young boys on gender issues, reproductive health, and the importance of respecting women’s rights while also addressing their unique needs. The goal is to instill positive values, enhance emotional intelligence, promote attitudinal change, and provide the necessary life skills to navigate societal pressures effectively.
The program was warmly received by students, teachers, and principals, who expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for its impact.
During the event, the Executive Director of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV), legal practitioner Mrs. Bolanle Afolabi, spoke on anger management. She emphasized that while anger is a natural emotion, failing to control it has led many young men into trouble, even landing some in correctional facilities. She encouraged students to develop healthy coping mechanisms and seek help when needed.
At St. Joseph’s College, Professor Bridget Awosika engaged the students in a discussion on resisting negative peer pressure, offering practical strategies for making informed and independent decisions.
Additionally, Mr. Oladeji Olorunsola, Director of Research and Documentation at the State Ministry of Women Affairs, spoke on the importance of attitudinal change, stressing the impact of good behavior and strong character.
Senior Nurse and Hospital Management Board member Patience Aarinola Adamolekun educated the students on emotional intelligence, introducing the RULER framework: Recognize emotions, Understand their causes, Label them accurately, Express them appropriately, and Regulate them effectively.
The event was attended by notable political figures from Ondo West, particularly women leaders, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Chief Mrs. Olaoye (Aserere), the Secretary to the Local Government, Erelu Abimbola Oshifeso, the APC Local Government Women Leader, Mrs. Biola Fayehun, SA Mobilization (Mrs. Udoh Olawoye), Mama Buje Budanu, and over 40 other appointees and key women stakeholders.
