KABALE: In a move aimed at addressing education barriers faced by girls with disabilities, NGOs Better Opportunities for Girls in partnership with the Me to You Organization have donated menstrual kits to Girls with Disabiltities at St. Maria Thereza Rushoroza Primary School, in Kabale Municipality.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The 100 kits received today afternoon at the Rushoroza Hill based School, are aimed at equipping girls with the tools and confidence to manage menstruation while at school, according to Ms. Nakachwa Sylivia Lubega, Executive Director of Better Opportunities for Girls.
The kits included reusable sanitary pads and knickers, items that are critical but often inaccessible to vulnerable girls, especially those living with disabilities.
“We envision a future where girls do not miss school because they lack sanitary pads,” Ms. Lubega stated.
She noted that if not properly prepared for, menstruation periods usually force girls to miss school and a number of them drop out altogether, while others face early pregnancies.
The NGO also conducted a life-skills training session to prepare the girls for the upcoming holiday season, emphasizing the importance of returning to school as students, not mothers.
“With this training and donation, we are equipping them with the skills and tools to navigate this challenging in time, confidently and safely.” Ms. Nakachwa said.
Mrs. Macklean Kamusiime Batware, the LC3 Chairperson for the Southern Division in Kabale Municipality, praised the donors for their impactful gesture.
“Many girls drop out of school simply because they cannot afford basic menstrual supplies. This donation is deeply touching, particularly because it focuses on girls with disabilities, who are the most vulnerable. I urge more organizations to support the girl child so they can pursue their education without such preventable obstacles,” she said.
Sr. Elizabeth Kabarwani Akiiki, the headteacher of St. Maria Thereza Rushoroza Primary School, also expressed her heartfelt gratitude,saying the gifts increase dignity and confidence that enables girls to stay focused in school.
A report by WoMena Uganda reveals that 48% of girls are unaware of menstruation before their first period, leaving many unprepared for this critical life transition.
The Ministry of Education and Sports further highlights that one in four girls aged 12 to 18 drops out of school upon the onset of menstruation, with absenteeism rates spiking from 7% to 28% during their menstrual cycle.
Most girls in Uganda begin menstruation between the ages of 9 and 15, with the average age being 13.
However, cultural myths and stigma surrounding menstruation perpetuate shame and isolation, particularly in rural areas.
According to UNICEF Uganda, 23% of girls drop out of school after they begin menstruating, contributing to gender inequality in education and limited future opportunities.
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