Organisation helps girl learners with sanitary pads

“We understand that many young learners face challenges due to limited access to sanitary pads, which can adversely affect their educational experience and overall well-being."

September 28, 2023

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

Excited to help girls learners at Chief Albert Luthuli Primary School No 2 are Matamela Nemaungani, Janap Biemba, Siphiwe Mahlangu, Reece Gallagher, Bonamelo Moloi and Kgomotso Ramutloa.

When the bell rang at Chief Albert Luthuli Primary School No 2 on September 15 to signal the beginning of lunch recess, the learners scattered in all directions within the school playgrounds.

Among them, the deputy principal Ratsoma Shatadi, ushered 189 girls into the school hall to receive dignity packs with two sets of sanitary pads from 100% Foundation, a Northmead-based NPO.

The girls were in good spirits and full of cheer, knowing people surrounded them, helping with packs that would assist them in managing their periods without feeling ashamed or embarrassed.

Some learners with officials from the school and the various organisations present during the distribution of sanitary pads.

Bonamelo Moloi, Kgomotso Ramutloa, Matamela Nemaungani, Siphiwe Mahlangu and Janap Biemba.

The organisation distributed 378 sanitary packs to assist, uplift and motivate the female learners. They also educated the learners about their menstruation period and the importance of correctly disposing of sanitary pads.

The foundation’s senior development and project coordinator, Janap Biemba, said through their focus on education, resource support, skills development and humanitarian outreach projects, they recognise the importance of ensuring young girls have proper access to quality menstrual hygiene products.

“We understand many young learners face challenges because of limited access to sanitary pads, which can adversely affect their educational experience and overall well-being. We wanted these girl learners to know the foundation is here to assist them,” she said.

A total of 189 learners received dignity packs.

The learners were also educated about their menstruation period and the importance of disposing of their sanitary pads correctly.

Reece Gallagher, Janap Biemba and Bonamelo Moloi with the packs donated to Chief Albert Luthuli Primary School No 2.

Biemba said the foundation is committed to making a positive impact in the communities they serve, adding they hope this gesture will also foster a culture of giving within the school and among learners.

“We intend to address immediate needs and encourage a culture of support and empowerment among the girls.

“We hope they will pass one pack to another girl who may not attend this school event, creating a ripple effect of kindness and solidarity.”

Bonamelo Moloi from Bonamelo Melisisizwe Foundation hands out a dignity pack to a learner.

Biemba said they were delighted to see how appreciative the learners were. She thanked the Bonamelo Melisizwe Foundation, Teddy Bear Foundation and The Hub University, who spoke to the learners about important issues.

“We understand the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable change. We partnered with the Bonamelo Melisizwe Foundation, which shares the same values as our organisation.

“We also had VIP guest speakers from The Teddy Bear Clinic and The Hub University, who addressed the girls on self-love, hygiene, human rights and the importance of community love and care.