In a significant move towards promoting menstrual health and hygiene among young women, the Selby Foundation Network, under its OhemaaBa project, has made a remarkable contribution to the Achaa Tawiah Government School in the Ejisu constituency, Kumasi. On May 19th, 2024, this initiative, led by Bernice Esi Selby, Managing Director for Selby Technology Ghana Ltd and Project Director for the OhemaaBa Pad Project at Selby Foundation Network, saw the donation of sanitary pads to 240 female students, all aged 11 and above. The project, aimed at fostering awareness and education on menstrual hygiene, has left an indelible mark on the lives of these young girls.
Addressing a Critical Need
Menstrual hygiene management is a critical issue that often goes unaddressed in many parts of the world, including Ghana. For many young girls, the lack of access to sanitary products can lead to school absenteeism and even dropouts, significantly affecting their education and future opportunities. The Selby Foundation Network recognizes this challenge and is committed to bridging this gap through its OhemaaBa project.
The OhemaaBa Project: A Beacon of Hope
The OhemaaBa project, spearheaded by Bernice Esi Selby, focuses on empowering young women and promoting menstrual health education. By providing sanitary pads to female students, the project ensures that girls do not miss school due to their menstrual cycles. This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for sanitary products but also fosters a supportive environment where young women can learn and grow without the stigma often associated with menstruation.
A Day of Empowerment and Education
The donation event at Achaa Tawiah Government School was more than just a distribution of sanitary pads. It was a day filled with learning and empowerment. Health professionals were invited to engage the students in informative talks about menstrual hygiene. Abigail from Methodist Clinic Adum led these sessions, educating the girls on the importance of maintaining good menstrual hygiene practices, debunking myths, and addressing any questions they had regarding menstruation.
Acknowledgements
This impactful event would not have been possible without the generous support and contributions of several key individuals and organizations. Rev. Elijah Osei played a crucial role by providing the sanitary pads distributed to the students. Nana Osei Tutu Appiah, a vital part of the outreach team, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event. Special thanks also go to Abigail from Methodist Clinic Adum for delivering the insightful health talks that empowered the students with essential knowledge about menstrual hygiene.
Impact on the Students
The impact of this initiative on the students of Achaa Tawiah Government School cannot be overstated. For many of the girls, receiving sanitary pads means not having to miss school during their periods. It means being able to participate fully in their education without the fear or embarrassment that often accompanies menstruation. The health talks provided them with valuable knowledge that will help them manage their menstrual health better, thereby boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
A Step Towards Gender Equality
By supporting menstrual hygiene and education, the Selby Foundation Network is taking significant steps towards gender equality in education. Ensuring that girls have the necessary resources to manage their menstruation is crucial in keeping them in school and allowing them to pursue their dreams without interruption. This initiative is a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society where every girl has the opportunity to succeed.
The Way Forward
The success of the OhemaaBa project at Achaa Tawiah Government School serves as an inspiring model for similar initiatives across the country. Bernice Esi Selby and the Selby Foundation Network plan to expand their efforts, reaching more schools and communities, and continuing to promote menstrual health education. By doing so, they hope to break the silence around menstruation and ensure that every young girl in Ghana has access to the resources and education she needs to thrive.
Conclusion
The Selby Foundation Network’s OhemaaBa project is more than a charitable initiative; it is a movement towards empowering young women and ensuring that menstruation does not stand in the way of their education. Led by Bernice Esi Selby, and supported by individuals like Rev. Elijah Osei, Nana Osei Tutu Appiah, and Abigail from Methodist Clinic Adum, the donation of sanitary pads and the health talks at Achaa Tawiah Government School have made a significant impact on the lives of 240 young girls, paving the way for a brighter, more educated future. This project is a shining example of how targeted interventions can make a world of difference, one girl at a time.
