Presented by Safe Space For Corporate Ladies Initiative in Collaboration with GANKCO Energy Limited
Summary of Outreach Activities
On October 2, 2025, Project Growth Africa (PGA), a division of the Safe Space for Corporate Ladies initiative established by Dr. Vivian Ihejirika, hosted the 2025 edition of PGA 2.0, themed Raising Heroes. This youth outreach program took place at Government Junior Secondary Schools in Asokoro and Kbepi, Abuja. In partnership with GANKCO Energy, the initiative engaged over 1,500 students through a blend of educational workshops and welfare support. The primary objectives included distributing hygiene kits, providing mental health awareness sessions, establishing peer-led “safe-space” clubs, and awarding scholarships to foster academic achievement. GANKCO Energy’s active participation, led by their Head of Social Responsibility, underscored their dedication to corporate social responsibility. The event was supported by fifteen volunteers, including educators and school administrators, who ensured meaningful interaction and assistance for every student.
Distribution of Hygiene Kits and Scholarship Awards
At both schools, students were provided with well-equipped hygiene kits containing essentials such as soap, toothpaste, sanitary pads, and other personal care items. These kits aimed to promote health, dignity, and particularly to support girls’ continued attendance in school. Research indicates that menstrual hygiene education significantly enhances health outcomes and reduces school absenteeism. By the conclusion of the event, over 1,500 hygiene kits had been distributed. Concurrently, twenty scholarships were granted to high-achieving students, comprising tuition assistance and educational materials, to recognize their efforts and encourage ongoing academic dedication. Additionally, the organizers introduced new Safe Space Clubs at each school-student-led groups designed to meet regularly and focus on well-being, leadership development, and goal-setting, thereby reinforcing the outreach’s core messages about self-care, mental health, and scholastic excellence.
Focus on Mental Health and Creating Safe Environments
The initiative placed a strong emphasis on mental health awareness. Licensed counselors and psychologists facilitated engaging sessions on managing stress, developing emotional intelligence, and boosting self-confidence. This focus is particularly important in Nigeria, where a UNICEF study revealed that one in six young people frequently experience feelings of depression or anxiety. The facilitators introduced practical coping mechanisms such as mindfulness practices and peer support strategies, encouraging students to seek assistance without fear of judgment. As highlighted in mental health advocacy literature, educating young people enables them to identify challenges early, understand the importance of seeking help, and know where to access resources. The newly formed weekly safe-space meetings aim to sustain this support system. Over time, these clubs will nurture skills like empathy and effective communication, which experts agree contribute to fostering “a more compassionate and cohesive school environment.”
Community Impact and Testimonials
The day’s activities also featured friendly competitions between classes, quizzes, and performances that highlighted students’ creativity and teamwork. School officials expressed their appreciation for the program’s positive influence. One principal remarked that the initiative provided students with “a renewed understanding of hygiene and mental health” and motivated them to strive for greater success. A representative from the Parent Teacher Association extended gratitude to the partners for their generosity. The event has attracted media attention, with plans for broader coverage to showcase how community-driven efforts can create meaningful change. Looking forward, PGA and GANKCO Energy are committed to expanding these outreach efforts, aiming to nurture today’s youth into confident, healthy leaders of the future.
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