To commemorate Global Menstrual Hygiene Day, which is held annually on May 28, the Asutifi North District Directorate of the Ghana Education Service organized an events in collaboration with the Chiefs of the Ntotroso and Wamahinso Traditional Councils and the Makers Network Foundation to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene management on May 26th and 27th. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the District Police Commander, Chief Marketing Officer of Premier Health Insurance, and representatives from Newmont Ghana Gold Limited.
The events specifically focused on educating Junior High School girls in Ntotroso and Wamahinso about proper menstrual hygiene management. The objective was to address negative social perceptions and norms surrounding menstruation while educating the public, particularly parents, about their role in supporting their daughters during menstruation. The organizers emphasized that menstruation is a natural process and guided young girls on what to expect and how to manage their
menstrual periods.
The District School Health Education Program (SHEP) Coordinator, Felicia Ohenewaa Larbi, explained that some girls do not receive guidance during their menstrual periods, leaving them with no option but to fall victim to negative peer influence, engage in social vices and eventually drop out of school.
Sanitary pads weredonated to schoolgirls and all female participants at the events. The traditional authorities who graced the occasion urged parents and guardians to maintain contact with their children throughout their menstrual cycle and take ownership of the WASH systems provided by ANAM WASH partners in communities, schools, and health facilities to ensure that the systems are well maintained.
A total of 230 school girls from nine schools participated in the event. The students came from basic schools at Ntotroso and Wamahinso as well as the Gyamfi Kumanini Senior High Technical School. The Guidance and Counselling Coordinator, Elizabeth Azuma Atinga, expressed appreciation to the Traditional Authorities, ANAM WASH partners, Makers Network Foundation, and all other stakeholders who contributed in diverse ways to organize the event.
