In a bid to promote menstrual hygiene and support female students to stay in school, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the Ayawaso Municipal Assembly, Dr. Michael Mensah, together with the Municipal Education Director, Ms. Judith Ennin, visited selected schools within the municipality to distribute sanitary pads.
The schools visited included Abelenkpe Basic 1 and Abelenkpe Basic 2. At Abelenkpe Basic 1, a total of 215 sanitary pads were distributed to schoolgirls, while 449 sanitary pads were given to their counterparts at Abelenkpe Basic 2.
Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Mensah emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to the well-being of students, particularly young girls, who often face challenges during their menstrual cycle.
“Menstrual hygiene is not just a health issue—it is an education issue,” Dr. Mensah said. “We know that some girls miss school because they do not have access to sanitary products.
This initiative is to make sure no girl is left behind simply because of her period. We want to give our daughters the confidence and support to remain in school and pursue their dreams.”
He further noted that the distribution exercise is part of a broader program by the Government of Ghaana, under the ministry of education for the Municipal Assembly to integrate health, sanitation, and education initiatives.
Ms. Judith Ennin, the Municipal Education Director, also encouraged the students to observe proper menstrual hygiene practices and use the pads responsibly.
“Your education is very important, and nothing should stand in your way—not even your menstrual cycle,” Ms. Ennin told the girls. “We urge you to take good care of yourselves, remain focused on your studies, and know that the Education Directorate is committed to supporting your journey.”
Teachers and parents present at the schools expressed gratitude for the intervention, stressing that the provision of sanitary pads would reduce absenteeism and boost the confidence of female students.
A teacher at Abelenkpe Basic 2 remarked:
“This is a timely intervention. Many of our girls stay home during their period because they feel uncomfortable or lack the needed supplies. This gesture will go a long way to keep them in school.”
Some of the beneficiaries also shared their excitement. A student from Abelenkpe Basic 1 said:
“Sometimes it is very difficult for us to get pads at home. I am happy that we have received them today. It will help us to come to school without fear.”
The distribution forms part of the Assembly’s ongoing initiatives to improve education standards in the municipality by addressing social and health-related issues that hinder academic performance.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
