From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
A non-profit organisation, U-SAVE Foundation, has empowered 750 girls with reusable sanitary pads and menstrual education as part of the organisation’s impactful initiative.
The engagement which took place at Government Day Secondary School (GDSS), Bwari, Abuja, also provided opportunity for the girls to freely ask questions and get the needed answers regarding their menstrual circle and hygiene.
Country Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Uju Rochas Anwukah, said the objective of the project was to educate students about menstrual hygiene and personal sanitation.
She said it was also dedicated to improving health outcomes and promoting climate resilience through equitable access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and hygiene.
“By involving boys in the dialogue, we created a supportive environment where girls can openly discuss their menstrual health and receive the necessary support from their peers and communities.
“The session also provided comprehensive guidance on accurately tracking menstrual cycles using flow tracker cards, ensuring that the girls have adequate knowledge to manage their cycles effectively.
“The students also received education on maintaining proper hygiene during menstruation, emphasizing the need for taking regular baths, at least twice a day. This holistic approach to menstrual education does not only improves hygiene practices, but also empower girls to feel confident and comfortable during menstruation, enabling them to actively participate in their education without interruption,” she said.
Mrs. Anwukah promised that the Foundation will continue to reach out to young ladies with more reusable sanitary pads and enlightenment campaigns to enable them improve on their sanitary hygiene.
Head Girl of the School, Miss Muhammad Modupe Shamsiyyah, in her remarks, said that learning about menstrual hygiene was eye-opener for her and other students. “It’s not just a girls’ thing; we all need to understand it.”
She appreciated U-SAVE Foundation for the mensual education as well as the menstrual hygiene kit.
Miss Wundu Rita, a SS2 student, also expressed her gratitude to the Foundation for coming to the school and for teaching them menstrual hygiene. “The reusable pads are really useful for us, and I’m thankful to U-SAVE for the knowledge and support.” Miss Wundu said.