On May 31st, 2024, the Selby Foundation Network continued its impactful journey of promoting menstrual hygiene and education with a second significant donation event. Under the OhemaaBa project, the Foundation donated sanitary pads to 80 girls from three different schools in Abonu, near Lake Bosomtwe in Kumasi. This initiative, aimed at reinforcing the importance of menstrual hygiene, marked another milestone in the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to empower young women.
A Vital Initiative in Abonu
Menstrual hygiene management remains a critical issue in many parts of Ghana. For many young girls, the lack of access to sanitary products can lead to school absenteeism, dropouts, and a host of other challenges that can impede their educational and personal development. The Selby Foundation Network’s OhemaaBa project is dedicated to addressing these issues by providing necessary resources and education.
The OhemaaBa Project: Empowering Girls
The OhemaaBa project, led by Bernice Esi Selby, focuses on empowering young women through menstrual health education and provision of sanitary products. By ensuring that girls have access to sanitary pads, the project helps them stay in school and participate fully in their education. This second donation drive in Abonu is a testament to the project’s expanding reach and enduring impact.
A Team Effort
The success of this event was made possible through the dedication and hard work of the outreach team, which included Mr. Joshua Akuffo Addo, Nana Osei Tutu Appiah, Brenda Bangdome, and Nurse Abigail from Methodist Clinic Adum. Each member played a crucial role in organizing and executing the event, ensuring that the girls received both the sanitary pads and the essential education on menstrual hygiene.
Educational Talks on Menstrual Hygiene
A key component of the donation event was the educational talk delivered by Nurse Abigail from Methodist Clinic Adum. These sessions aimed to provide the girls with comprehensive knowledge about menstrual hygiene, addressing common myths and misconceptions, and answering any questions they had. By equipping the girls with this knowledge, the project seeks to build their confidence and help them manage their menstrual health effectively.
Impact on the Students
For the 80 girls who received the sanitary pads, this donation means more than just access to necessary products. It represents an opportunity to attend school without interruption and to engage fully in their education. The health talks further empowered them with the knowledge needed to maintain good menstrual hygiene, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and self-esteem.
Strengthening Gender Equality
Through initiatives like the OhemaaBa project, the Selby Foundation Network is making significant strides towards achieving gender equality in education. By addressing menstrual hygiene needs, the Foundation helps ensure that girls can pursue their education without the barriers that menstruation often presents. This commitment to inclusivity and equity is a cornerstone of the Foundation’s mission.
Looking Ahead
The successful donation event in Abonu is just the beginning. The Selby Foundation Network, under the leadership of Bernice Esi Selby, plans to continue expanding its reach, bringing menstrual health education and resources to more schools and communities across Ghana. By doing so, the Foundation aims to break the silence around menstruation and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to thrive.
Conclusion
The Selby Foundation Network’s second donation drive in Abonu is a powerful reminder of the impact that targeted initiatives can have on the lives of young women. Through the provision of sanitary pads and comprehensive menstrual hygiene education, the Foundation is helping to create a brighter, more equitable future for girls in Ghana. With the dedicated efforts of the outreach team and the ongoing support of the community, the OhemaaBa project continues to make a world of difference, one girl at a time.
