In rural areas, many girls face challenges in managing menstrual hygiene due to a lack of knowledge and access to essential products. Recognizing this issue, a non-governmental organization (NGO) has taken steps to educate and support female students in Ibara-Orile by distributing sanitary pads.

Globally, nearly 800 million adolescent girls and women experience menstruation daily, with approximately 500 million lacking access to menstrual hygiene products and proper facilities for menstrual management. In Nigeria, about 37 million girls and women struggle to afford menstrual hygiene products, resorting to unsuitable alternatives like clothes or leaves, which can expose them to infections and hinder their social mobility.

To address these challenges, the NGO initiated a program at Ajiboyede Comprehensive High School in Ibara-Orile to provide menstrual hygiene education and distribute sanitary pads. The Vice Principal of the school emphasized the project’s importance in equipping girls with the necessary knowledge to manage their menstruation effectively.

The beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the donated sanitary pads, noting that the orientation they received instilled confidence in them, helping them understand that menstruation is a natural part of being a girl. The NGO stressed that menstrual hygiene is a critical public health issue, and by reaching out to 150 students, they aim to reduce the risk of infections among girls in the community.

This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for menstrual hygiene products but also empowers girls with knowledge and confidence to manage their periods effectively. By bridging the gap in access to sanitary pads and education, the NGO is making a positive impact on the lives of young girls in rural areas, promoting their health and well-being.