In a world that is constantly evolving, one thing remains unchanged – the importance of education and good health for every child. Yet, there are countless young girls in underserved communities who face unique challenges that can threaten their access to education and overall well-being. In a heartwarming collaboration, the Network Girl Tech Initiative Uganda, in partnership with Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi, Rohi International, and their esteemed clients, McDermott and Total Energies, set out on a mission to make a difference. The outreach program at Kibambura Primary School in Bulisa District touched the lives of many, aiming to address issues related to menstrual health, reproductive rights, and the stigma surrounding menstruation.

As an Initiative we are dedicated to supporting girls in underserved communities by providing them with essential resources and knowledge. This time, our focus was on addressing the unique challenges related to menstrual health and reproductive rights. The outreach program also aimed to eliminate the stigma associated with menstruation and empower both girls and boys with valuable information.

Empowering the Girls

Kibambura Primary School is home to approximately 290 girls, with 90 of them already experiencing menstruation. The initiative’s first step was to provide these young girls with free reusable pads, a vital resource that can make a significant difference in their lives. The girls were not only given these practical items, but they were also equipped with knowledge about menstrual health, the importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), and the damaging effects of period stigma. This comprehensive approach ensured that the girls were not only given the tools they needed but also empowered with knowledge to navigate these crucial aspects of life.

Community Engagement and Beyond

The impact of this outreach program extended beyond the school gates. Community leaders were engaged and encouraged to collaborate with guardians of young girls, ensuring that the fight against period stigma and early marriages is a collective effort. They were also urged to be environmental stewards, emphasizing the importance of keeping both girls and boys in school. It is through these collective efforts that the team hopes to bring about lasting change in Bulisa and the surrounding areas.

Inclusivity and Awareness

We took an inclusive approach, making sure that boys were not left behind. They were also given the opportunity to learn about these essential topics. This approach is key to fostering open conversations, breaking down taboos, and building a more understanding and supportive community.

Donations that Matter

The outreach program went beyond education and awareness. The team generously donated 200 reusable pads, 120 pairs of underwear (nickers), as well as pens and pencils, essentials for education and empowerment. These tangible contributions serve as a foundation for the girls’ continued education.

Challenges Uncovered

During this outreach, several significant challenges came to light:

  1. Lack of Access to Menstrual Health Resources: Access to menstrual health and SRHR information remains a challenge in these areas. Many school-going girls lack sanitary products, and the stigma surrounding menstruation can lead to girls skipping school. The headmistress, Miss Violet, expressed gratitude for the reusable pads donated and urged more support for disadvantaged communities.
  2. Stigma Surrounding Menstruation: Initially, the girls were hesitant and embarrassed to discuss their menstrual health. However, as the sessions progressed, they began to open up. This highlights the need for comprehensive SRHR and menstrual health education.
  3. Limited Knowledge: Due to the stigma, many girls had limited knowledge about menstrual hygiene and reproductive health. This knowledge gap can lead to absenteeism and early marriages.
  4. Lack of Access to Clean Water: The unavailability of running water and soap at schools in the Tilenga area is a pressing issue. Girls have to travel long distances to access clean water during their periods, leading to missed classes and poor period hygiene practices.
  5. Lack of Role Models: Many girls in disadvantaged schools lack role models to inspire them to stay in school. Female role models are crucial in empowering these girls and showing them a pathway to a brighter future. You can register in our volunteer section to become a mentor to a girl.

Interventions Needed

To address these challenges, several key interventions are necessary:

  • Comprehensive SRHR and Menstrual Health Education: Schools should incorporate SRHR and menstrual health education into their curricula, ensuring it’s inclusive and accessible to all.
  • Female Role Models and Mentors: Disadvantaged schools need frequent visits from female role models and mentors to inspire girls to stay in school.
  • WASH Programs: The availability of clean water, proper hygiene, and sanitation is essential, especially for girls menstruating at school.
  • Provision of Shoes: Many children in these areas lack shoes, making their long journey to school even more challenging.
  • Climate Change Education: Introducing climate change as an additional learning subject can raise awareness and empower students to address environmental issues.

 

The outreach program in Bulisa serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that can be made when individuals and organizations come together with a shared mission. Our work as The Network Girl Tech Initiative Uganda and partners is show the world that breaking down barriers and empowering young girls is not just a dream but an achievable reality. By addressing the challenges surrounding menstrual health, period stigma, and SRHR, we are creating a brighter future for the girls. You can support/donate to help us make a lasting impact and empower the next generation.

Remarks

Special thanks go to TotalEnergiesUG, McDermott, Rohi, MadshotPhotography, Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi, and all partners, donors, and volunteers who made this impactful journey possible.