Divine Word University (DWU) recently spearheaded a crucial initiative to elevate women’s health through a series of menstrual health and hygiene awareness sessions conducted in partnership with Queen Pads. These sessions, overseen by DWU Alumni and Queen Pads Founder Ms. Anne-Shirley Korave, engaged more than 200 female students. The timing of these sessions was significant as they coincided with World Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global observance on May 28th.
Given the prevalence of preventable health issues among women in Papua New Guinea due to inadequate menstrual hygiene, including risks like cervical cancer, the primary goal of the program was to combat stigma and empower young women with life-saving information. Following its success, DWU plans to expand the initiative to all its campuses to ensure widespread access to this critical education.
Mrs. Melissa Kembol-Anzu, DWU’s Director of Partnerships, emphasized the profound impact of the awareness sessions, stating, “Reaching over 200 students marks just the beginning. Our aim is to provide every female student across all DWU campuses with essential menstrual health information.”
The interactive sessions covered various crucial topics such as promoting safe menstrual hygiene practices to prevent infections, educating on affordable and sustainable sanitary products, dispelling myths surrounding menstruation, and recognizing early signs of reproductive health issues.
Participants praised the program, with many advocating for regular dialogues on women’s health. One student expressed gratitude, acknowledging that the session had enlightened her about the potential health risks associated with poor hygiene practices.
Notably, male staff and students also contributed valuable perspectives during the sessions. Hillary, a staff member, highlighted the need to break cultural taboos surrounding men’s involvement in discussions about women’s health, stressing the importance of raising awareness to combat diseases like cervical cancer.
Students like Jason and David underscored the necessity of including male participants in future sessions, emphasizing the role men can play in supporting their female family members by understanding and promoting healthy hygiene practices.
Queen Pads, with a vision to become a leading manufacturer of reusable sanitary products in Papua New Guinea, collaborates actively with key partners like the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and CPL Foundation to address the challenges faced by menstruating individuals.
DWU remains steadfast in its commitment to health education in Papua New Guinea, working in collaboration with various partners, organizations, and community initiatives to bolster learning and support women’s health.
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