Empowering Girls Through Menstrual Hygiene: St. Mary’s Nkozi Receives Support from UMU Marathon 2024 Charity Outreach

Earlier today, St. Mary’s Secondary School in Nkozi became the site of a heartwarming charity outreach event that aimed to empower the girl child and promote education for all. The event, organized as a way to give back to the school for their active participation and support of the 2024 UMU Marathon, focused on addressing a critical issue: ensuring that girls can stay in school during menstruation. The charity initiative was both a gesture of appreciation and a strategic effort to improve the well-being and education of the students.

St. Mary’s Secondary School has long been a proud partner of the UMU Marathon, offering enthusiastic support and participation in the event, which raises funds for various community projects. In recognition of the school’s commitment to the marathon’s cause, the university organized this outreach to give back to the students, particularly focusing on the girls. The charity event not only acknowledged the school’s role in the marathon but also sought to tackle one of the most pressing issues affecting girls’ education in rural communities: menstrual hygiene management.

The main objective of today’s charity outreach was to ensure that girls at St. Mary’s Secondary School have the necessary resources to manage their menstrual health with dignity, thereby allowing them to continue their education without interruption. Many girls in rural areas face significant challenges in managing their periods, including a lack of access to sanitary pads, soap, and clean toilet facilities. These challenges often lead to school absenteeism or even dropping out.

To combat this, the outreach initiative focused on providing essential menstrual hygiene products to the girls. This included sanitary pads, soap, and toilet paper, which were distributed to all the female students. These items are vital in enabling girls to manage their menstruation effectively and stay in school, ensuring they do not fall behind in their education due to a natural biological process.

In addition to menstrual hygiene products, the charity outreach also emphasized the importance of educational resources. The students received books and other essential learning materials that will support their academic progress. These donations are intended to help students stay focused on their studies, encouraging them to pursue their education without unnecessary distractions or barriers. The outreach also included UMU-branded materials, which were distributed as prizes and souvenirs for the students. These items not only serve as a reminder of the partnership between the school and the university but also as symbols of achievement and community spirit. The event was more than just a donation ceremony—it was a day of celebration and engagement. Students actively participated in the event, where they had the chance to win prizes through various activities and games. The UMU-branded materials were awarded as prizes for various activities, creating a festive atmosphere that allowed students to connect with one another and enjoy the occasion.

The presence of the UMU students and staff added a personal touch to the event. Students were able to ask questions about the importance of menstrual hygiene, education, and staying healthy. Discussions also focused on breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation, and how communities can work together to create a supportive environment for girls to thrive academically.

Today’s charity outreach was a clear testament to the power of collaboration and community support. It highlighted how small acts of kindness and thoughtful interventions can make a world of difference in the lives of young students. By providing the necessary resources for menstrual health and academic support, the event directly impacted the lives of many girls, enabling them to stay in school with dignity.

The Deputy headteacher of St. Mary’s Secondary School Mrs Sabano Violet expressed gratitude for the support and noted that the initiative would have a long-lasting impact on the students. “The partnership with UMU has been incredibly beneficial to our students, and today’s outreach event is a perfect example of how collaboration can improve the quality of education for our girls. We are thankful for this thoughtful gesture, and we are confident that it will help our girls continue their education without unnecessary interruptions,” the headteacher said.

The students, especially the girls, left with a renewed sense of hope and determination, knowing that their education is supported not only by their school but also by a broader community that cares about their well-being. This charity initiative is just one step in an ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students at St. Mary’s Secondary School. As we move forward, the collaboration between the school, UMU, and other partners will continue to create more opportunities for students to succeed and thrive.