As part of the World Menstrual Hygiene Day observed across the world on May 28, Empower Playgrounds, a reputable NGO, with support from Rotary Club of Accra Kanda and Rotaract Club of Accra Adabraka have commemorated the day with a donation of reusable menstrual kits at Attabui M/A Basic School in the Eastern Region.
The commemoration, which attracted 12 basic and junior high schools, was also geared towards creating awareness on menstrual health, promoting hygiene, and encouraging education among young girls, aligning with their mission to empower children in rural Ghana through education and innovative programs.
Speaking at the brief ceremony, the headteacher of Attabui M/A Basic School, Madam Hannah Kensema Saforo, acknowledged the tremendous inputs from Empower Playgrounds in transforming education through their life-changing projects. According to her, such initiatives go a long way in propelling students to achieve greater heights.
“Every small step counts, and initiatives like these are the building blocks of a brighter future for our girls. These supports would propel these students to achieve more”. She noted briefly.
Advocating for open conversations on menstrual hygiene, Mr. Edward Doe, School Health Education Program Coordinator, Akuapem North Municipal, called on authorities and organizations to provide access to facilities and sanitary pads across all sectors. This, he said, would open conversations and challenge stigmas surrounding menstruation.
Madam Peace Yeri of Empower Playgrounds took the girls through the various stages within the adolescent cycle and during menstruation. She also introduced the students to the reusable menstrual kits, steps involved in using the kits, and their maintenance. She advised the students to adhere to various health guidelines during their menstrual period.
Expressing their gratitude, a section of the students called for more of such educational and health products from Empower Playgrounds.
The benefited schools included Tinkong M/A JHS, Attabui M/A Basic, Adawso Presby, Tinkong Presby, Nyame Bekyere M/A Basic, and Timber Nkwanta SDA, among others.
In attendance at the brief ceremony were district school inspectors, health educationist, parents, and community leaders.