A non-profit organisation, U-SAVE Foundation, has empowered 750 young girls with reusable sanitary pads and menstrual education, as well as education empowerment, in the Federal Capital Territory. This was part of the organisation’s impactful initiative at Government Day Secondary School in Bwari.
According to the Country Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Uju Rochas Anwukah, the project aims to educate students about menstrual hygiene and sanitation, leaving a lasting impact on the girls.
“It is also dedicated to improving health outcomes and promoting climate resilience through equitable access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and hygiene,” she added.
“Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the team members. With the support of 30 U-SAVE volunteers and fellows, the event not only focused on menstrual hygiene but also highlighted the strong correlation between education on menstrual hygiene and the empowerment of the girl child. During the enlightening session, students, both male and female, actively participated in discussions about the intricacies of the menstrual cycle, demonstrating the importance of education in breaking down societal taboos and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.”
She further stressed that the U-SAVE Foundation aims to create a supportive environment where girls can openly discuss their menstrual health and receive the necessary support from their peers and communities by involving boys in the dialogue. In addition, the foundation provides comprehensive guidance on accurately tracking menstrual cycles using flow tracker cards and emphasises the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during menstruation, including taking regular baths at least twice a day.
This holistic approach to menstrual education not only improves hygiene practices but also empowers girls to feel confident and comfortable during menstruation, enabling them to actively participate in their education without interruption.
“The sensitization session introduced reusable menstrual pads as an alternative to traditional disposable products,” she explained.
Furthermore, the students wholeheartedly embraced the sustainable and cost-effective option provided by the U-SAVE Foundation, recognising its advantages not only for their well-being but also for the environment. Through the distribution of reusable pads, the foundation promotes the significance of sustainable menstrual solutions, reduces waste, and contributes to a more eco-friendly future.
To show their support and encouragement, each student received a U-SAVE menstrual hygiene kit at the end of the sensitisation session. These kits included reusable pads and a U-SAVE flow tracker card.
U-SAVE Foundation’s overarching goal is to empower girls to stay in school, ensuring they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The country director also pointed out that the U-SAVE Foundation remains committed to improving the lives of individuals in low-income communities by addressing the challenges faced in accessing safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and hygiene.
“By integrating menstrual hygiene education alongside traditional education, we strive to break down barriers and empower girls to excel academically, pursue their dreams, and contribute to creating a more equitable society,” she said.
The organisation plans to continue to reach out to young Nigerian girls with more reusable sanitary pads and enlightenment.
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