By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering all children to reach their full potential, regardless of gender.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Women’s Affairs, Dr Seun Bosede Osamaye, stated this during the launch of the Sensitising the Boy Child initiative at Ondo Boys High School, Ondo Anglican Grammar School, and St Joseph’s College, all in Ondo Town, Ondo State.

According to Dr Osamaye, the initiative represents a significant step by the current administration towards the holistic development of young boys. She explained that the programme focuses on identifying and addressing boys’ unique needs, aiming to instil positive values, enhance emotional intelligence, foster attitudinal change, and equip them with essential life skills to navigate societal pressures effectively.

“This innovative programme marks a crucial shift from the traditional focus on girls’ empowerment, recognising the importance of addressing the unique needs and challenges of the boy child,” she stated.

Dr Osamaye commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for launching the initiative, which seeks to raise awareness about boys’ vulnerability. She emphasised that by targeting emotional intelligence, anger management, and peer influence, the programme would equip young boys with vital life skills, fostering healthier relationships and communities.

The event was warmly received by students, teachers, and principals, who expressed excitement and appreciation for the impactful programme.

Key stakeholders from the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Ondo State Agency for Gender-Based Violence led engaging sessions to educate boys on critical life skills. Experts spoke on emotional intelligence, explaining how students could develop this transformative skill using the RULER framework: Recognise emotions, Understand their causes, Label them accurately, Express emotions appropriately, and Regulate them effectively.

A legal expert, Bolanle Afolabi, Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV), addressed the topic of anger management. She stressed that while anger is a natural emotion, failing to control it has led many young men into trouble and correctional facilities. She urged students to develop healthy coping mechanisms and seek help when needed.

A university don, Professor Bridget Awosika, engaged students in a discussion on resisting negative peer pressure, offering practical strategies to help them make informed and independent decisions. Meanwhile, the Director of Research and Documentation, Mr Oladeji Olorunsola, highlighted the impact of attitudinal change, reiterating the importance of good behaviour and character.

The event also had in attendance political leaders from Ondo West, particularly women from the local government and other strategic stakeholders, who commended the governor for the timely initiative.

The ministry’s delegation included all directors of the Ministry of Women Affairs, selected leaders of the O’Datiwa Women Initiative, and other key stakeholders.