Empowering Menstrual Hygiene Education: Ms. Sharmila Nagarkoti’s Inspiring Work
Menstrual hygiene education is a crucial aspect of adolescent health, and dedicated facilitators like Ms. Sharmila Nagarkoti are making significant strides in this field. Working as a nurse at Shree Baleshwori Secondary School, Sharmila has played a vital role in spreading awareness about menstrual health among the students in her school. Her participation in the Training of Trainers (TOT) program at Bani Bilash Secondary School helped to enhanced her knowledge of menstruation, puberty, self-defense, and the benefits of reusable sanitary napkins. Equipped with more knowledge from the TOT training, Sharmila has fostered safe spaces where students, teachers, and parents can engage in open discussions about menstrual health.
Reflecting on her experience in the TOT program, Sharmila described it as an enriching journey that provided her with both scientific knowledge and practical teaching methodologies. The training helped her gain confidence in addressing taboos surrounding menstruation. “The most valuable aspect of the training was learning how to create a comfortable environment where students could ask questions freely,” she shared. This newfound confidence has been key in guiding young girls on managing their menstrual health safely and hygienically.
Following the TOT program, Sharmila conducted multiple awareness sessions at Shree Baleshwori Secondary School. She has played an crucial role to aware about 71 students from grade 6 to 10 about importance of reproductive health and menstrual hygiene education. These programs targeted students and parents alike, aiming to dispel myths and misconceptions about menstruation. Sharmila emphasised the importance of engaging parents, as their support is vital in ensuring young girls manage menstruation with dignity. She is also actively engaged to normalise this topic among the parents and community people. “I have seen a significant shift in students’ confidence. Many now openly discuss their concerns, which was unthinkable before,” she noted, highlighting the positive change she witnessed.
In addition to addressing menstrual taboos, Sharmila’s sessions raised awareness about the environmental impact of disposable sanitary products, promoting the use of reusable sanitary napkins. Her efforts have encouraged students to take proactive roles in educating their peers. “One of my proudest moments was when a group of students took the lead in teaching their classmates about menstrual hygiene,” she proudly shared. Through her dedication, Sharmila has transformed menstrual hygiene education at her school and continues to advocate for inclusive discussions and improved menstrual health facilities to ensure no girl feels ashamed or unprepared during her cycle.
Bringing positive changes and creating impact in schools through this project had only been possible through the financial support of Stiftung Soziale Und Okologische Zukunft (SOEZ), Germany.