Health Ministry Wants Female Students’ Protection against Infectious Diseases; Distributes Menstrual Hygiene Materials to Schools
By: Sylvester Choloplay
Email: sccholoplay@gmail.com
Monrovia – Liberia, May 29, 2024: The Health Ministry has begun a significant effort to distribute menstrual hygiene materials to high schools across Montserrado, Bomi, and Margibi counties.
This initiative coincides with the celebration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene management.
Speaking to the media during the distribution ceremony in Monrovia on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, Dr. Nowiah Gorpudolo Dennis, Director of Family Health Division at the Ministry of Health, underlined the critical importance of improving menstrual health and hygiene.
“Improving menstrual health and hygiene can help girls stay in school, reduce the risk of infections and other health complications, and empower girls to take control of their reproductive health,” Dr. Dennis stated.
She further explained that many young female students lack access to basic menstrual hygiene products, which not only affects their health but also their education. “When girls do not have access to menstrual hygiene products, they often miss school during their periods, which can have long-term effects on their academic performance and self-esteem,” she said.
Dr. Dennis revealed that ensuring girls have the necessary resources to manage their menstruation is essential for their physical health, emotional well-being, and educational opportunities.
In addition to reducing the risk of infections, adequate menstrual hygiene practices help prevent other health complications. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to reproductive tract infections and urinary tract infections, which can have severe consequences if not addressed. By providing sanitary pads, tissues, and other hygiene materials, the Ministry of Health aims to safeguard the health of young female students and ensure they can continue their education without interruption.
Dr. Dennis called for more partnerships with the Ministry of Health to assist young female students who do not have the means to buy menstrual pads, dignity kits, and other essential items. “We need ongoing support from various organizations to protect female students in schools from infections and other health issues,” she mentioned.
The distribution of menstrual hygiene materials was made possible through donations from organizations such as UNFPA, Lucky Pharmacy, Stop & Shop Store, and others. These donations are being distributed to seventeen schools, including Paynesville Community School, J.J. Roberts, D Tweh, Sasston Public School, Best Brains, G.W. Gibson, and Voker Mission, among others.
Highlighting the collective effort, Dr. Dennis mentioned, “Today, we are emphasizing the importance of menstruation and its implications for girl students. The Ministry decided to rally around its partners under the leadership of our Minister, Dr. Louis Kpoto, who is currently out of the country. We thought it wise to commemorate this day by reaching out to female students in 17 schools.”
She also noted that the sanitary pads, tissues, and blue biscuits are being distributed in Montserrado, Bomi, and Margibi counties, ensuring a broad reach to students in need.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the Health Minister, Assistant Minister for Vital Statistics, Dr. Anthony Fortune, expressed his gratitude to the team and the Ministry’s partners who donated the sanitary items. “We look forward to more partnerships and effective awareness campaigns on menstrual issues to save female students from infections and other diseases,” he urged.
The initiative not only highlights the importance of menstrual hygiene but also serves as a call to action for the community to support young females in managing their menstrual health. By addressing this critical issue, the Ministry of Health aims to create an environment where girls can thrive academically and personally, free from the barriers imposed by inadequate menstrual hygiene.
