Protea Glen Primary girls receive sanitary pads donation from COJATMYL
The sanitary towels, each containing five pads, generously donated by the Johannesburg-based Spiritual Chords Foundation.
In a meaningful initiative aimed at empowering young girls and addressing crucial health and safety issues, the City of Johannesburg African Transformation Movement Youth League (COJATMYL) handed over 150 packs of reusable sanitary pads, each containing five pads, to grade six and seven learners at Protea Glen Primary School on August 19.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including ATMYL organiser Rethabile Manoto, representative Priya Ranchod, SAPS FCS Soweto Unit Sergeant Mulalo Makwarela, and clerk Tsholo Jacobs.
It marked an important step in raising awareness around menstrual health and addressing the challenges faced by girls in South Africa.
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“The event provided an opportunity to engage the learners in an open conversation about key issues surrounding girlhood, including the importance of maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle, the significance of regular menstruation, and the dangers of unwanted touching,” said Priya Ranchod, member of COJATMYL.
Ranchod added that the discussions also included guidance on who to contact in an emergency, as well as other safety concerns affecting young girls today.
Organisers led conversations that helped break down stigmas associated with menstruation and emphasised that basic needs should never prevent girls from attending school.
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The handover, which included 150 packs of sanitary pads, highlighted the link between education and access to proper menstrual health products. The sanitary towels were generously donated by the Johannesburg-based Spiritual Chords Foundation.
“The event is a clear demonstration of COJATMYL’s ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by young girls and ensure they can continue their education without hindrance.
“Girls should never have to feel embarrassed about their menstrual cycles, and they must never miss school because of it. Access to sanitary products is not just a health issue; it is a matter of social justice,” Ranchod said.
