Girls from various schools in the New Juaben South municipality in the Eastern Region, were beneficiaries of sanitary pads to mark this year’s commemoration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, which fell on Tuesday.
The sanitary pads, which were donated by the New Patriotic Party Women’s Wing in the New Juaben South constituency to some schools at Koforidua, were a demonstration of the women’s wing’s commitment to supporting girls’ education and promoting menstrual hygiene.
The initiative, dubbed “One girl student, one sanitary pad,” aims to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and ensure that young girls have access to the necessary resources to manage their periods with dignity.
Some beneficiary schools include Ascension Presby ‘A’ JHS, St Dominic Roman Catholic School, Trom – Nyerede M/A school, Apimpoa Islamic JHS, New Juaben SHS, Oboss SHS, Pentecost SHS and many others.
The distribution of sanitary pads marked Menstrual Hygiene Day, which was observed under the theme “Period Friendly World,” emphasizing the goal of creating a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to education, work, or other opportunities.
The theme “Period Free World” also highlights the need to break down the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation and to promote menstrual hygiene management as a vital aspect of healthcare and well-being.
Addressing the students, the NPP Constituency Women Organizer for New Juaben South, Madam Regina Bempong, said that by providing access to sanitary pads, the NPP women’s wing is helping to ensure that girls can attend school with dignity and confidence without worrying about stigma and discomfort associated with menstruation.
According to her, in the past, women were often shunned and isolated during their periods, but thanks to education and personal development in hygiene, men and women can now work and support each other during menstruation.
She entreated the girls to keep themselves clean during menstruation and avoid harmful practices like using old, torn clothes that can lead to infections.
On his part, John Huckson Arthur, NPP Chairman for New Juaben South, said sanitary pads are not just a matter of personal hygiene but also a crucial factor in ensuring that girls can stay in school and pursue their education without interruptions.
He empowered the girls to take control of their education as they have the fundamental right to study well and pursue education to the highest level, without settling for mediocrity.
According to him addressing menstrual hygiene issues can help ensure that girls stay in school and reach their full potential.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to NET2 TV NEWS shared their thoughts on menstrual hygiene issues.
