By Patrick Ochei
Students of Olona Mixed Secondary School in Onicha-Olona, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, recently participated in an inspiring programme of mentorship, learning and empowerment when the Fostering Hopes Foundation visited the school to commemorate the International Women’s Day 2026.
The outreach initiative brought together members of the Foundation, collaborating partners and a child protection advocate in an engaging session designed to educate and inspire students on the importance of the global celebration and the role of young people, particularly girls, in shaping a better future.
The event was anchored on the 2026 International Women’s Day theme: “Give To Gain: Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls.”
In his opening remarks, the Director of Community Engagement and Development and Head of Communications of the Foundation, Patrick Ochei, introduced the organisation and outlined its mission of promoting child protection, youth empowerment and community development.
He also highlighted several impactful initiatives undertaken by the Foundation within its relatively short period of operation.
The programme also featured goodwill messages from distinguished collaborators, including the State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Tracy Ikolomi, and the Auditor of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Celestine Afokobah.
Both speakers encouraged students, especially the girls, to remain committed to their education, pursue meaningful careers and aspire to emulate the achievements of distinguished Nigerian women such as Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Oby Ezekwesili, the late Dora Akunyili, and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Delivering the keynote session, child protection advocate Onyinye engaged the students in an interactive discussion centred on the International Women’s Day theme.
She highlighted various social and behavioural factors that could hinder the progress of the girl-child and stressed the importance of discipline, confidence and determination in achieving life goals.
Drawing from her personal experiences, she urged the female students to take responsibility for their future by prioritising education and personal development.
She also advised them to avoid distractions such as premature romantic relationships and instead focus on activities that will help them realise their aspirations.
In her vote of thanks, a female student, Miss Marvelous, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Foundation and its partners for the enlightening programme, noting that the lessons shared would positively influence her choices and ambitions.
Similarly, the Vice Principal of the school, Mr. Nwachokor, commended the Foundation for selecting the institution for its International Women’s Day outreach, describing the programme as a valuable opportunity that exposed students to guidance, motivation and inspiration.
The event concluded with the presentation of sanitary pads and soaps to students and teachers, a gesture aimed at promoting personal hygiene and supporting the wellbeing of the school community.
