By Deborah Naa Aku Allotey / Francis Blankson
Tema, June 25, GNA – The Tema Metro Education Directorate, with sponsorship from TDC Ghana Limited, has hosted a Menstrual Hygiene Day for students to break the silence around periods and promote a period-friendly Ghana.
The programme, themed “Together For a Period Friendly Ghana”, was geared towards creating an environment where menstruation is approached with respect, understanding, and support, rather than shame or stigma.
The hashtag “#Pads4All” was actively promoted throughout the programme, symbolising the collective effort to provide accessible and affordable menstrual products.
Mrs Bernice Ofori, Tema Metro Education Director, chairing the programme, expressed gratitude to TDC for their generous donation of sanitary pads for the students.
Mrs Ofori emphasised the importance of promoting a culture of hygiene and respect, encouraging male students to show respect and support their female mates, especially during their menstrual period.
She advised students not to allow menstrual stigma to hold them down, indicating that the menstrual cycle was natural and important in a girl child.
She encouraged the students to use clean products, prioritise their health, and speak openly about their experience during menstruation, noting that “You are strong, and your voice matters.”
Mrs Ofori urged the government to subsidise the cost of sanitary products to make them more affordable for girls and women.
Madam Edith Akowuah, a nurse from Tema Health Centre, educated the students on menstruation, clarifying that it was a normal biological process.
Madam Akowuah demonstrated the proper use of sanitary pads, stressing the need for hygiene and comfort, saying, “Always have an extra pad to ensure that you are always prepared.”
She highlighted the role of boys in supporting girls, acknowledging that the girl child has no control over their menstrual cycles.
She explained that menstrual pains were normal and advised students to take medication to reduce pain but not overdose on the medication.
Madam Agatha Adrah, Head of the Human Resource Unit, Tema Metro Education Directorate, advised students against premarital sex, highlighting the potential consequences and encouraging them to focus on their studies.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Sawer/Kenneth Odeng Adade