Sweden Alumni Network Cameroon (S.A.N.C) in partnership with the Life Changing Humanitarian Association (LICHA-Cameroon) has commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day this Tuesday 28 May 2024 in Bamenda. The event which held at Government Practising Nursery and Primary School Niboung-Nkwen Bamenda marked another stride towards improving menstrual hygiene and education for young girls.
This initiative brought together over 77 adolescent girls, 10 female school tutors, and 10 facilitators and volunteers from both organizations. The main aim according to the organizers was to educate these young girls about menstruation, the critical importance of menstrual hygiene management, and the bodily changes that accompany puberty. Such education is vital in a region where socio-political instability has overshadows health and educational priorities.
During the event, the girls received sanitary pads and were educated on the proper use of both disposable and reusable sanitary products to prevent infections. The comprehensive training also extended to crucial topics such as preventing unwanted pregnancies and avoiding situations that could lead to sexual harassment, which are common in reducing school dropout rates.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude and excitement, highlighting the timeliness and relevance of the information they received. They pledged to practice good menstrual hygiene and to share their newfound knowledge with peers in their communities, amplifying the impact of the initiative.
School authorities lauded the efforts of S.A.N.C and LICHA-Cameroon, emphasizing the need for more of such educational programs within the primary school setting. They noted that this was the first event of its kind and stressed its critical timing for the young participants.
S.A.N.C authorities say they are committed to strengthening the relationship between Sweden and Cameroon and fostering sustainable development through information sharing and collaboration with like-minded organizations.
As World Menstrual Hygiene Day highlights the global need for menstrual health education and resources, the efforts of organizations like the Sweden Alumni Network Cameroon and LICHA-Cameroon stand out as crucial steps toward achieving these goals, especially in crisis-affected regions.