- Girls’ rights defender Doreen Totona Korir has called for stronger support for hygiene and personal care among adolescent girls.
- She said access to sanitary products is critical in reducing absenteeism and promoting dignity in schools.
- Korir distributed sanitary pads to learners at Murinduko Baptist Senior School and pledged to expand the initiative across Nakuru County.
Promoting hygiene and personal care among teenagers is essential in building confident, healthy and focused learners, girls’ rights defender Doreen Totona Korir has said.
Korir noted that no girl should miss school or learning opportunities due to a lack of sanitary support and proper hygiene.
“Every girl deserves the opportunity to learn with dignity and confidence. Lack of sanitary products should never be a reason for a girl to stay away from school,” she said.
Speaking at Murinduko Baptist Senior School in Nyota Ward, Kuresoi North, Nakuru County, Korir observed that poor hygiene among adolescents contributes to absenteeism, low self-esteem and vulnerability to negative influences.
“When girls lack basic hygiene necessities, they often lose confidence, miss classes and may be exposed to behaviours that can derail their education,” she added.
Korir called on parents, schools, community leaders and development partners to work together in promoting hygiene and personal care among girls.
She emphasised that supporting menstrual hygiene is key to ensuring equal access to education and improving learning outcomes.
Sanitary Pads Distributed
During the event, Korir engaged students on the importance of remaining in school and prioritising their education.
She also distributed sanitary pads to support menstrual hygiene management and enhance equal learning opportunities.
Korir pledged to extend the initiative to more schools across Nakuru County.
Beneficiaries welcomed the programme, saying it would help them focus on their studies and attend school more comfortably.
“We are grateful for the support. The sanitary pads will help us attend school comfortably and concentrate on our education,” said one of the learners.
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Despite ongoing efforts by government agencies and development partners to distribute sanitary towels across the country, many girls continue to face challenges accessing the products, resulting in school absenteeism and interrupted learning.
By Kimutai Langat
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