SANITARY TOWELS FOR GIRLS IN RURAL SCHOOLS

Period poverty remains a big barrier to education for girls in rural Uganda, often causing them to miss school during their menstrual cycle. With support from AFRI Pads, Joy for Children Uganda (JFCU) has been working to provide the necessary products, education, and improved school facilities to help young girls manage their menstrual health with dignity. 

In many rural communities across Uganda, girls struggle to access menstrual hygiene products, leaving them without proper means to manage their periods. This often results in school absenteeism, as girls stay home due to a lack of sanitary products or the absence of clean, private spaces to use them. The stigma surrounding menstruation further isolates girls, making it difficult for them to seek help or even discuss their needs. These challenges contribute to a higher risk of school dropout among girls.

In response to this we have launched a program aimed at addressing period poverty by providing menstrual hygiene kits, educational resources, and improving school sanitation. This initiative is focused on helping girls remain in school and continue their education with confidence.

We distributed 200 menstrual hygiene kits to girls in rural schools. Each kit contained reusable sanitary pads, knickers, and an educational booklet designed to teach girls how to manage their menstrual health. These kits provide a sustainable solution, allowing girls to continue attending school without the worry of missing class due to their menstrual cycle.

Alongside the distribution of these kits, educational sessions were held to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. These workshops were designed not only to educate girls but also to challenge the stigma around menstruation, encouraging open discussions and fostering a more supportive environment in the schools. Both boys and girls participated in these sessions, helping to create a culture of understanding and respect for menstrual health.

JFCU also collaborated with schools to improve sanitation facilities, ensuring that girls have access to clean and private spaces to manage their menstrual needs while at school. Having proper toilets and handwashing stations plays an important role in reducing absenteeism and helping girls feel comfortable and confident during their periods.

The impact of this initiative has been notable. Many girls who received the kits have shared that they no longer feel embarrassed or anxious about their periods. They are now able to attend school regularly without missing days due to menstruation. Teachers have noticed improved attendance rates and greater participation from the girls, as they are no longer held back by the lack of proper hygiene resources.

One girl, after receiving a kit, said, "Before I got my pads, I would stay home for several days every month. Now, I don’t have to miss school, and I can focus on my studies without worrying." This feedback highlights the importance of addressing period poverty, as it directly contributes to a girl's ability to stay in school and pursue her education.

Joy for Children Uganda plans to expand this initiative to reach more schools in rural Uganda. Our goal is to distribute more menstrual hygiene kits, host additional educational workshops, and continue improving sanitation facilities in schools. By scaling up this program, we aim to ensure that no girl is left behind due to menstruation, and that all girls have the tools and knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health with dignity.

With the support from our generous donors, Joy for Children Uganda is making a tangible difference in the lives of girls in rural schools. By providing menstrual hygiene products, promoting education on menstrual health, and improving school infrastructure, we are breaking down the barriers that prevent girls from accessing education and achieving their potential.

Thank you for your continued support of this critical initiative.