The wife of Ondo State governor, Mrs Betty Akeredolu, has urged government at all levels and other stakeholders to give free sanitary pads to the girl-child during menstrual periods.
Akeredolu made the plea on Thursday at a stakeholders’ meeting on the 63rd session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) held in Akure.
According to her, adequate provision must be given to teenagers, especially those from poor families who cannot afford sanitary pads for the girl child.
“ If condoms are given free of charge to the men, I don’t see any reason why sanitary pads should not be given free of charge too.
“The lack of infrastructure negatively impacts on girl child education because of skips in classes during their menses,’’ she said.
Akeredolu also said mothers must review how to raise every son to respect and appreciate womanhood.
She further said the United Nation had given women a voice globally to kick against sexual harassment, especially at work places.
“Economic empowerment brings about knowledge, financial stability and self worth and gives a woman confidence.
“Concerted efforts should be made by government to encourage women to engage in productive ventures that are women friendly,’’ she said.
These ventures, she said, include farming, agro allied business, cottage industries and ICT.
She also said that 2,000 women and youths had been empowered through the Forum of Wives of State Officials.