Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, has presented sanitary pads to female students in second-cycle institutions across the region to support menstrual hygiene management. This initiative is part of the government’s Free Sanitary Pad Distribution Programme, which aims to promote gender equality and enhance school attendance among girls.
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Government’s Commitment to Girls’ Education – Upper West Regional Minister
The distribution was launched at the Jamiat Islamic Girls’ SHS in Wa, where Mr Puozuing emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for girls to actively participate in their academic activities. He highlighted that this policy, introduced by President John Mahama, aims to help girls remain in school, maintain good health, and focus on learning.
“The government may not be able to meet the sanitary pad needs of the schoolgirls throughout the year, but we are committed to ensuring that whenever schools are in session, the girls will have the support they need to stay comfortable and focused,” said Mr Puozuing.
Regional Distribution Plans
Mr Razak Abdul-Korah, the Upper West Regional Director of Education, revealed that the region was expected to receive a total of 220,000 packs of sanitary pads for distribution to female students. To date, 73,650 packs have been delivered, with each female student set to receive four packs, which are expected to last approximately five months.
Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Challenges
Hajia Afisata Salia, the Headmistress of Jamiat Islamic SHS, acknowledged that access to sanitary pads had been a significant challenge for some students. She expressed optimism that this intervention would ease the burden on the girls and help reduce absenteeism, promote better health and personal hygiene, and create a more supportive learning environment.
Students Express Gratitude
Miss Mukarramah Hafiz, a student at the school, expressed her gratitude to the government, stating that this initiative would not only alleviate the financial burden on parents but also foster greater inclusion in teaching and learning. She appreciated the thoughtful consideration of the menstrual hygiene needs of schoolgirls.
This initiative demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to supporting girls’ education and ensuring that they can learn in a healthier and more inclusive environment.
