Creating Sustainable Change: Impact of Menstrual Hygiene Education in Schools
Recognizing the critical importance of menstrual hygiene education, the NEW Initiative has been implementing the project “Promoting Menstrual Hygiene Education and Reusable Sanitary Napkins for Children in Schools” in eight schools within the Konjyosome Rural Municipality. This initiative focuses on empowering adolescent girls through comprehensive education on menstruation and reproductive health, while also advocating for the use of eco-friendly, reusable sanitary napkins. As a mid-term project activities review, and to assess the project’s impact till date, and to gather suggestions for future activities improvements, a one-day Interaction and Discussion Program was held on December 6, 2024, at Jana Bhawana Campus in Chapagaun. The event brought together all the trained teacher facilitators from the schools, representative of targeted students, municipal representatives, trainers, and producers of reusable sanitary napkins.
The Key discussions during the program focused on the impact on menstrual education awareness, the usability and production of reusable sanitary napkins, and the challenges of addressing menstrual health topics in classrooms. Facilitators reported that the project has fostered confidence among students and created an environment that encourages open discussions about menstruation. While the reusable sanitary napkins were praised for their environmental and economic benefits, feedback from students and teachers highlighted the need for quality improvements and sustainable production practices. Additionally, challenges such as the difficulties teachers face in delivering menstrual hygiene and reproductive health educational content underscored the importance of providing further training and orientation programs.
The program has achieved significant milestones, including increasing students’ confidence, enhancing community awareness, and promoting environmental sustainability. Students and teachers shared their experiences, emphasizing the transformative impact of the initiative in normalizing conversations about menstruation and reducing stigma. Beyond individual benefits, the program has positively influenced the community, with parents and other stakeholders showing strong support for these efforts. The introduction of reusable sanitary napkins has not only addressed affordability concerns but also provided a sustainable alternative to the environmental challenges posed by the disposal of single-use napkins.
Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) remains a critical issue in Nepali schools, particularly in government institutions, where many girls face challenges during their periods. While government efforts to provide free sanitary napkins are commendable, improper disposal methods, such as burning, contribute to environmental pollution and public dissatisfaction. The NEW Initiative’s focus on reusable sanitary napkins offers a sustainable solution by reducing waste and promoting long-term economic benefits. Through education, empowerment, and active community engagement, this project has established a new standard for addressing menstrual health challenges in Konjyosome Rural Municipality and has paved the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
NEW Initiative would like to express its gratitude towards Dr. Hartmut Brosamle, President, Stiftung Soziale und Okologische Zukunft for providing the needful financial support to execute this project.