Divine Word University recently took a significant step in promoting women’s health by hosting a menstrual health and hygiene awareness session in collaboration with Queen Pads. Led by DWU Alumni and Queen Pads founder Anne-Shirley Korave, the session aimed to educate over 200 female students on safe menstrual hygiene practices. This initiative coincided with the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global event observed annually on the 28th of May.
Given the prevalence of preventable health issues faced by many women in Papua New Guinea, including cervical cancer resulting from inadequate menstrual hygiene practices, the session sought to empower young women with life-saving knowledge. The success of the program has prompted DWU to expand it to all its campuses, ensuring a wider reach and impact among students.
Melissa Kembol-Anzu, the Director of Partnerships at DWU, emphasized the significance of the initiative, noting that the recent session was just the beginning. The goal is to provide every female student across all DWU campuses with access to essential information on menstrual health and hygiene.
The interactive sessions covered various topics, including safe menstrual hygiene practices to prevent infections, the importance of affordable and sustainable sanitary products, dispelling myths and stigma surrounding menstruation, and identifying early warning signs of reproductive health issues. Participants lauded the program and expressed a desire for more discussions on women’s health.
While the focus was primarily on female students, the sessions also saw the participation of some male staff and students. Hillary, a male staff member, acknowledged the cultural taboos surrounding discussions on women’s health in their society but recognized the importance of breaking such barriers for the betterment of all individuals.
As the session at DWU garnered positive feedback and engagement, it underscored the critical need for ongoing education and awareness on female hygiene. By addressing these issues openly and providing essential information, institutions like DWU and initiatives like Queen Pads are paving the way for a healthier and more informed female population in Papua New Guinea.
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