GES provides 6.6 million sanitary pads to schoolgirls nationwide

Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Challenges in Ghana

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken a significant step towards promoting the welfare and dignity of schoolgirls by distributing over 6.6 million sanitary pads across the country. This initiative aims to address menstrual hygiene challenges and ensure that no girl misses school during her menstrual period.

According to a statement issued by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at GES, the distribution of 6,607,095 sanitary pads is part of broader efforts to support girls' education and well-being. The statement emphasized that this initiative is aligned with the Government of Ghana’s commitment to providing free sanitary pads to all schoolgirls from basic to second cycle levels on a monthly basis throughout their time in school.

This effort comes as Ghana joins the global community in commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11 each year. This year’s theme, “The Girl I am. The change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crises,” highlights the role of girls in driving positive change, especially during times of crisis.

The day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support the growth, education, and empowerment of every girl child in Ghana and beyond. The GES statement reiterated its dedication to building an inclusive and equitable education system that responds to the needs of every learner.

A Commitment to Gender Equality and Health

The distribution of sanitary pads reflects the government’s commitment to improving menstrual hygiene, promoting gender equality in education, and safeguarding the health and confidence of adolescent girls. The initiative not only addresses a critical need but also contributes to reducing the stigma associated with menstruation.

By ensuring access to sanitary products, the GES aims to create an environment where girls can focus on their studies without the fear of missing school due to their menstrual cycle. The statement assured all schoolgirls of continued support and encouraged them to take full advantage of the opportunities provided to them.

Collaboration and Support

The GES extended its appreciation to the Ministry of Education for its tireless efforts in operationalizing this life-changing initiative. The collaboration between various stakeholders has been instrumental in making this program a reality.

The initiative also aligns with the broader goals of the Government of Ghana to improve the quality of education and promote the well-being of students. By addressing the specific needs of girls, the GES is contributing to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Looking Ahead

As the GES continues to implement programs that support girls’ education, it remains committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and equity. The distribution of sanitary pads is just one example of how the service is working to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to succeed.

The success of this initiative highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by girls in education. It also underscores the need for continued investment in programs that support the holistic development of students.

Through these efforts, the GES is not only improving the lives of individual girls but also contributing to the overall progress of the education sector in Ghana. The commitment to gender equality and health will continue to be a priority as the service works towards creating a more equitable future for all learners.