A group of 14 global health and social development students from Rice University participated in FOSCOD’s Global Service Trip program to address menstruation challenges among school-going girls.
Working with Women and Development Foundation (WADF), the students launched a pilot project in Nakibbizi primary and Namwezi secondary schools. The goal was to promote menstrual health, form social clubs, and provide menstrual assistance to girls.
Community assessments were conducted as well as mobilizing support for constructing separate girls’ washrooms, and developing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials on menstrual health, hygiene, peer mentoring, and reusable sanitary towel making.
Menstrual Health Peer Educator Clubs were established in both schools, training the members to educate their peers and community members.
Through FOSCOD’s guidance and the students’ dedication, the project made a significant impact on the community. It provided girls with access to menstrual hygiene resources, promoted positive attitudes towards menstruation, and empowered young women to become agents of change.