The government under President Mahama has announced a groundbreaking initiative to tackle period poverty among schoolgirls, starting in March 2025. In his State of the Nation Address on February 27, 2025, Mahama unveiled a plan to provide free sanitary pads to female students from Primary 5 all the way through to Senior High School (SHS). This initiative aims to reduce absenteeism linked to period-related challenges and ensure that girls have access to menstrual hygiene products regardless of their economic status.
Mahama emphasized the importance of reducing absenteeism among female students by providing free sanitary pads. The plan specifies that girls in Primary and Junior High School (JHS) will receive seven packs of sanitary pads each term, while those in SHS will be provided with seven packs per semester. This provision is crucial in addressing the issue of girls missing school due to menstruation, especially in rural areas where access to sanitary products can be limited or costly.
In many rural communities, girls often resort to unsafe alternatives like using old clothes, rags, or toilet rolls during their periods due to a lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene products. These practices not only fail to offer adequate protection but also pose serious health risks, leading to infections and discomfort. By providing free sanitary pads to students, the government is taking a significant step towards ensuring that all girls have equal opportunities to attend school without the added burden of menstrual hygiene challenges.
This initiative is a key move in eradicating period poverty and promoting equality and dignity among young women. It empowers girls to pursue their education and future prospects without being hindered by something as natural as menstruation. By addressing period poverty, the government is paving the way for a brighter future for all girls, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
In conclusion, President Mahama’s initiative to provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls is a commendable step towards ensuring that every girl has the chance to attend school without the barriers posed by period poverty. It is a vital move towards equality and empowerment, allowing young women to focus on their education and dreams without being held back by circumstances beyond their control.
