Menstrual Awareness and Re-Usable Sanitary Napkins in Rural Nepal – A Step Towards Change
Cultural and traditional beliefs along with social structures often perpetuate silence and misconceptions about menstruation in the society of Nepal. This makes it a challenge for the girls to access accurate information and support during the crucial time of menstrual period in their lives. Hence, NEW Initiative’s initiation of project related with promoting menstrual hygiene education (MHE) in rural schools of Konjyosome Rural Municipality has been a significant step towards breaking cultural taboos and empowering young girls in schools.
Through the financial support from Stiftung Soziale Und Okologische Zukunft (SOEZ), German, NEW Initiative implemented the project “Menstrual Hygiene Education and Reusable Sanitary Napkins Promotion for Children in Schools” project is being implemented in eight local schools, addressing a critical need in the community. Shree Gothbhanjyang Secondary School, Shree Banaspati Basic School, Shree Bagbhairab Secondary School, Shree Gyanodaya Secondary School, Shree Sarashwoti Secondary School, Shree Gupteshwor Secondary School, Shree Baleshwori Secondary School, Shree Magargaun Secondary School are the eight schools where the project activities are being implemented.
The project aimed to equip local teachers with essential knowledge related with menstrual hygiene education for the long term sustainability of the awareness activities in the schools. This will also foster an open discussions about this sensitive topic inside the school with all the relevant stakeholders. Hence, from April 22 to 24, 2024, a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) session took place for teachers from eight schools at Bani Bilash Secondary School in Chapagaun, Lalitpur. Two teachers from each school participated enthusiastically, guided by trainers Ms. Rajani Gurung and Ms. Anjana Malla.
Through participation and training of two teachers from each school in Trainer of Trainers (TOT), the project ensures that knowledge is effectively conveyed to young girls, especially those approaching puberty. This preparation enables these students to better understand the physical changes they will experience and to adopt hygienic practices early on.
The training covered a range of topics related to menstruation, with an emphasis on the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. Subjects included the functions of male and female body parts, the significance of menstruation, menstrual hygiene, and pregnancy. These topics were presented clearly and in detail to encourage students to ask questions and satisfy their curiosity. In addition, teachers learned how to demonstrate the use of reusable sanitary napkins and maintain hygiene, as well as how to raise awareness about human trafficking and self-defense strategies for challenging situations. To enhance participants’ confidence and address any concerns, feedback and suggestions were provided on effectively presenting the material in their schools.
Ms. Ganga Shrestha from Bani Bilash Secondary School expressed her excitement afterward, pointing that the training was extremely beneficial. She shared that, although teaching is her profession, this training helped her address sensitive topics more openly, making it easier for students to learn and ask questions. Ms. Chandrakala from Shree Bagbhairab Secondary School highlighted that the training covered managing reusable sanitary napkins, understanding the menstrual cycle, and maintaining reproductive health. She was surprised to learn that women menstruate for an average of 3,000 days over their lifetimes. Similarly, a teachers from Shree Gothbhanjyang Secondary School appreciated the detailed information provided about both male and female reproductive systems and the menstrual calendar.
Although only female teachers attended the TOT sessions, many initially felt hesitant about teaching these subjects, likely due to a lack of open discussion on the first day. However, the trainers encouraged a straightforward and accessible approach, empowering the teachers to address these topics with confidence in the classroom. All the participants of TOT, later recognized as facilitators of MHE, were very excited to facilitate the sessions in schools.