In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, Keystone Bank Limited, in collaboration with the Abia State Government, empowered over 1,130 underprivileged girls from 17 local government areas last week. The initiative focused on menstrual hygiene and financial literacy as part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility project, “Let’s Talk Period.”
The project aims to enhance the well-being, health, lifestyle, and educational opportunities for young girls in the communities where Keystone Bank operates. In line with the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child theme, ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ the initiative highlights the urgency for action and the hope that girls’ voices can bring for a brighter tomorrow.
During the event, 3,800 sanitary pads were distributed to promote awareness about menstrual hygiene and support the health and well-being of the participants.
Notable dignitaries present included Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, wife of the Governor of Abia State; Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, wife of the Deputy Governor; Dr. Mrs. Maureen Ijeoma Agbukwa, Commissioner for Women Affairs; Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Felix, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection; Mrs. Ogechi Oguama, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs; Mrs. Chinwe Kanu Ubah, Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Mobilization; and Mr. Kene Nwosu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Education.
In her address, Mrs. Otti stressed the significance of menstrual hygiene and encouraged the girls to embrace their strengths and potential. She inspired them to envision a bright future filled with opportunities for personal growth and success.
Dr. Eucharia Ken-Agbiriogu, the Directorate Head for the South at Keystone Bank, conducted a session on financial literacy, equipping the girls with essential knowledge for their financial futures. She motivated the young attendees to recognize their potential and aim for greatness, stating, “The ‘Let’s Talk Period’ project reflects Keystone Bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to supporting women’s empowerment and education, especially in underserved communities.”
Dr. Ken-Agbiriogu emphasized the bank’s pride in partnering with the Abia State Government for such an impactful initiative, affirming their belief in the power of the girl child and their commitment to providing the necessary resources and knowledge for success. “Today’s project is part of our lifelong journey of empowerment and education for these girls,” she concluded.