The Ahafo Regional Co-ordinating Council (RCC) and Netcentric Campaigns, a US-based non-profit organization, collaborated to donate sanitary pads and educational materials to 500 basic school girls in the region. This initiative aimed to promote proper menstrual hygiene and reduce stigma surrounding menstruation. The donation, which included 5,000 exercise books and 500 school bags, targeted girls from various districts within the region and was launched during the regional celebration of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025 in Goaso.
During the event, Ahafo Regional Minister Charity Gardiner announced that girls in public basic schools across the region would receive free sanitary pads. She emphasized that this initiative aligns with Ghana’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 5, focusing on Quality Education and Gender Equality.
Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on May 28, raises awareness about menstrual health and aims to eliminate taboos hindering access to safe and dignified menstrual care. The 2025 theme, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” emphasizes the need for collective efforts to eradicate stigma and ensure equitable access to menstrual products and education.
As part of the initiative, GH¢292.4 million was allocated in the 2024/2025 national budget to provide sanitary pads to female students in public basic and secondary schools nationwide. Mrs. Gardiner urged men to support menstrual health management efforts and reject cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe environment for girls.
Abraham Fletcher, the Ahafo Regional Director of Education, highlighted how myths, misinformation, and stigma related to menstruation contribute to shame and poor hygiene practices among girls. He stressed the need for open conversations to prevent absenteeism and academic challenges faced by menstruating girls.
Mr. Fletcher pledged the Education Directorate’s support to ensure the full implementation of WASH masterplans in the region, focusing on providing proper water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools to enhance the dignity and confidence of menstruating girls. Gloria Amankwah, a beneficiary of the initiative, expressed gratitude for the support, stating that it would help girls stay in school and manage their periods effectively.
The launch event brought together various stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Education Service, local government, NGOs, the media, parents, teachers, and students, highlighting the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to menstrual hygiene management. Menstrual hygiene remains a critical public health and education issue in developing countries, requiring policy reforms, investment in infrastructure, access to affordable products, education, and community engagement to empower girls.
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