- Talau Comprehensive School has conducted a comprehensive menstrual hygiene awareness programme to promote learners’ health and dignity.
- Learners received practical demonstrations on the proper use and disposal of sanitary pads.
- The initiative aims to reduce stigma, improve school attendance and strengthen life skills education.
Talau Comprehensive School has strengthened its commitment to learners’ health and well-being through a comprehensive menstrual hygiene awareness programme aimed at equipping students with practical knowledge, life skills and positive attitudes towards menstrual health management.
The session was led by Deputy Headteacher Cherry Ekwata, assisted by Mr. Samwel Poghisio and Mr. John Masinde, and focused on promoting dignity, confidence and inclusive learning, particularly among girls.
During the interactive session, Deputy Headteacher Ekwata conducted a practical demonstration on the correct use of sanitary pads, guiding learners step by step on their proper use, timely replacement and safe disposal.
She explained that menstruation is a normal biological process and encouraged learners to embrace it confidently without fear, shame or stigma.
According to Ekwata, open discussions on menstrual health are essential in breaking cultural taboos, correcting misinformation and promoting healthy hygiene practices.
She emphasised that proper menstrual hygiene helps prevent infections, minimise discomfort, eliminate unpleasant odours and improve self-confidence.
Girls who maintain good menstrual hygiene, she noted, are more likely to attend school regularly and participate actively in both academic and co-curricular activities.
Learners were advised to change sanitary pads every four to six hours, depending on menstrual flow, wash their hands before and after changing pads, wear clean undergarments and maintain personal hygiene using clean water.
The deputy headteacher also stressed the importance of proper disposal of used sanitary products as part of good hygiene and environmental conservation.
Ekwata cautioned learners against unsafe menstrual hygiene practices, including prolonged use of sanitary pads and the use of unhygienic absorbent materials, warning that such practices could result in infections, skin irritation and other health complications.
She further observed that poor menstrual hygiene often contributes to absenteeism, negatively affecting learners’ academic performance.
Mr. Samwel Poghisio and Mr. John Masinde reinforced the key messages by encouraging learners to seek accurate information from teachers, parents and healthcare professionals rather than relying on myths or misinformation.
The facilitators also urged boys to support their female classmates by showing empathy and avoiding teasing or stigmatising girls during menstruation.
According to the educators, creating a respectful and supportive school environment is essential in ensuring that menstruation never becomes a barrier to education.
Investing in learners’ well-being
School leaders noted that effective menstrual hygiene management contributes directly to improved attendance, better concentration in class and enhanced academic performance.
The programme forms part of Talau Comprehensive School’s broader efforts to strengthen life skills education while promoting learners’ health, dignity and overall well-being.
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The facilitators concluded by reminding learners that menstrual hygiene is not only a personal health issue but also an educational and social responsibility that requires continuous awareness, support and open dialogue.
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