Oforikrom Education Directorate advocates for Pad Dispensers in schools

The Oforikrom Education Directorate in the Ashanti Region is advocating for the introduction of sanitary pad dispensers in basic schools across the country to address the challenge of teenage girls missing school during their menstrual periods.

Dorothy Oye Dabrah, the Girl Child Officer for Oforikrom, has highlighted that many young girls struggle with accessing sanitary products, leading to frequent absenteeism during menstruation. To counter this, she is calling for the implementation of sanitary pad dispensers in schools nationwide.

Her advocacy follows a local initiative in Oforikrom municipality, where dispensers have already been installed in some basic schools. Ms. Dabrah believes that this project will significantly reduce absenteeism, improve academic performance, and ensure the comfort of female students.

“Providing girls with a reliable and accessible source of menstrual products will help them stay in school during their periods, leading to better academic outcomes and overall well-being,” she said during the UNESCO International Day of the Girl Child event, held by the Oforikrom Education Directorate in collaboration with Education 360.

Ms. Dabrah also urged parents, philanthropists, and other stakeholders to contribute to the empowerment of young girls by helping provide resources that can improve their educational journey.

The guest speaker, Dr. Beatrice Akyinah, emphasized the need for government intervention in making sanitary pads more affordable. She suggested that government subsidies on menstrual products could help ensure that girls can manage their periods without shame or discomfort.

“If the government subsidizes the cost of sanitary pads, it will greatly assist young girls and reduce the stigma around menstruation,” Dr. Akyinah stated.

The event, themed “Girl’s Vision for the Future,” aimed to inspire and empower girls by connecting them with successful women from various fields, who shared their experiences and advice on how to achieve their goals. Dr. Akyinah further encouraged women and girls to focus on working hard to reach their aspirations, rather than relying on gender-based entitlements.

“It’s time for women to acknowledge their potential and make impactful contributions to their lives and society,” she added.