In a heartfelt gesture to support female hygiene, Monica Patrick, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has donated 300 sanitary pads to fellow corps members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Okada, Edo State.
Monica, a graduate of the University of Calabar, said the donation is part of her commitment to promoting menstrual hygiene and supporting the health of women and girls. Alongside the distribution, she organised a workshop focused on vaginal hygiene to further educate her fellow corps members.
“I have always had the desire to reach out to the girl-child and women. This programme, which includes a health talk and the free distribution of sanitary pads, is a step in that direction. I am grateful to the state coordinator, platoon leaders, and my elder brother, Dr Prince Michael, for their support in making this a reality,” she said.
The health session was led by Fatima Hassan, Executive Director of the Women for Greater Good Foundation, who educated participants on proper vaginal care and menstrual hygiene.
“The vagina is a critical part of a woman’s reproductive system and must be kept clean. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands before touching the body, keeping the area dry, and avoiding harmful practices like douching, are essential,” she said.
Dr Frances Ben-Ushie, the NYSC State Coordinator in Edo, praised the initiative, noting its impact on the 864 female corps members in camp. She highlighted that many of them may lack access to sanitary products or adequate menstrual health information.
“Her initiative will not only help those in need but also inspire others to take action,” she said.
During the event, Dr Ben-Ushie also launched the Florish Foundation for Women and Youth, an organisation she founded in 2023 to support education and health initiatives. The foundation has collaborated with the NYSC on various outreach projects, including sickle cell awareness, genotype testing, and rural health programs.
“Nigeria has the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease globally, with about 150,000 children born with the condition each year. We believe corps members are powerful change agents who can educate communities and reduce the incidence of this preventable condition,” she explained.
She further urged young people, especially intending couples, to prioritise genotype awareness to help reduce the burden of sickle cell disease. With initiatives like Monica’s and continued NYSC involvement, Dr Ben-Ushie reaffirmed the role of corps members in driving positive change across Nigeria.
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