In a move to support girls’ education, the Association for the Protection and Advocacy of Teachers’ Rights in Tanzania (CHAKUWAHATA) in Mbarali District, Mbeya, has donated 50 sanitary pads to female students at Haruni and Mshikamano Secondary Schools.
The initiative aims to help girls who struggle to afford menstrual hygiene products, ensuring they can attend school without interruption.
The donation was handed over during International Women’s Day celebrations in Igurusi Ward.
Janet Chacha, a teacher at Manienga Primary School in Mawindi Ward, said the association was motivated to support girls so they can attend school confidently and with dignity. She confirmed the program will be ongoing, starting this year in Mbarali, focusing on students from challenging backgrounds.
“We urge the community to support these children so they can manage their periods at school instead of staying home due to a lack of sanitary pads,” Chacha said.
CHAKUWAHATA has 748 members in Mbarali, including 271 women and 477 men.
Victoria Sulumbu, another teacher, stressed that many girls miss classes during their menstrual cycle, which affects academic performance.
“We encourage communities and stakeholders to join efforts in empowering girls, who are the nation’s future, to study without fear,” she said.
The girls expressed gratitude for the support. Fatuma Kalua, a Form Four student at Haruni Secondary School, described the pads as a “big help” for students, while Gladness John from Mshikamano Secondary School said the donation boosts girls’ confidence and ensures they can participate fully in lessons.
