By Doyin Adeleye & Promise Ezekiel

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In response to society’s lack of awareness about the struggles of boys, they have been encouraged to speak up about societal pressure and emotional pain.

This encouragement was given at Aquinas College, Akure, during celebration of the International Day of the Boy Child.

Organised by the Kids and Teen Resource Center, the programme titled: ‘Boys’ Health and Well-being’, aimed to break the silence and foster a culture of understanding and support for young boys.

Adedotun Adedoyin from Marie Stopes International said being a boy is characterised by activeness, which often leads them (boys) to hide their feelings.

Mr Adedoyin encouraged the boys to always speak up whenever they are hurt, pressured or bullied and must prioritise their health and carefully choose their friends.

Speaking for Jekatunro Initiative, Saheed Ibrahim, emphasised the importance of celebrating Boys’ Day, and urged the students to create a vision board and spend their time on productive activities that will benefit their future.

The Education Page Editor of The Hope newspaper further encouraged the boys to avoid alcohol, hard drugs, and any other harmful substances that could negatively impact their future.

While sharing several stories of boys ruined by hard drugs and societal pressure, he noted that boys will face pressure but advised them to remain calm and have mentors.

Sensitizing the boys on Gender-Based Violence, Adamolekun Emmanuel from No Means No Initiative urged the boys to stand against bullying, abuse and any form of violence.

He emphasized the relevance of obtaining consent before taking any action, especially towards the opposite gender.