In a concerted effort to promote Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination awareness, Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), in collaboration with Girl Effect Nigeria, convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting on January 21, 2025, in Akure, Ondo State.

The initiative, launched on January 6, 2025, focuses on children aged 9–14 in Akure South and Odigbo Local Government Areas.

Led by Mrs. Folashade Bamigboye, the project team held strategic discussions with key representatives from the Ministry of Education, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (OSPHCDA).

These meetings aimed to outline project objectives and identify School Health Counsellors and Health Care Workers to drive the campaign within schools, health facilities, and communities.

Mrs. Ademuyiwa F. Olufunke, Director of Guidance and Counselling at the Ministry of Education, commended K&TRC’s longstanding contributions, stating:
“Kids & Teens Resource Centre has been making an impact since 2002. I remember their dedication from my early days as a counselor. I encourage the team to continue this excellent work.”

The initiative involves training school teachers and community health workers to lead HPV vaccination awareness efforts. A total of 14 secondary schools and 6 primary schools—10 from each local government area—have been selected to participate.

Mrs. Ogunmakinwa Florence, Deputy Director of Community Health Services at OSPHCDA, highlighted the importance of educating parents about the benefits of HPV vaccination during their visits to primary health care centers.

She also confirmed the selection of 20 Community Health Workers (CHWs) from four political wards in each local government area, alongside 16 Community Health Influencers, Promoters, and Services (CHIPS) workers. These teams will engage in door-to-door mobilization to ensure widespread community awareness and participation.

Training sessions for the selected school teachers and health workers are scheduled to begin in the second week of February 2025.

Expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, K&TRC reaffirmed their commitment to building healthier communities and protecting young girls from HPV-related diseases.