The Universal Child Care Foundation (UCCF), in partnership with the GKI Leadership Centre, has successfully commemorated World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026 with a large-scale educational and donation outreach programme across selected schools in Dzodze within the Ketu North District of the Volta Region.
The initiative, which targeted teenagers, captured pupils from Basic Five to the Junior High School and was implemented across two circuits in the Ketu North District, including Dzodze East and Dzodze Torgodo, including schools such as Fiagbedu RC School, Bagome Basic School, Tornu Basic School, Kave Primary Schools A & B and JHS, Kpelikope Basic School, and Tsiaveme Basic School.
The programme focused on advancing menstrual health education, promoting dignity for the girl-child, eliminating stigma, and strengthening awareness around reproductive hygiene.
Over 2,000 sanitary pads were distributed to female students and teachers, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to supporting menstrual hygiene management in basic schools.
The outreach was led by Mrs Emefa Quashie Agbana, Executive Director of Universal Child Care Foundation (UCCF), and Gabriel King Akpalu, Executive Founder of the GKI Leadership Centre.
The initiative also featured structured educational sessions facilitated by health professionals, aimed at improving knowledge and practices surrounding menstrual hygiene.
A key highlight of the programme was a practical demonstration on the proper use of sanitary products. Pupils were guided on correct hygiene practices to prevent infections and ensure safe menstrual management. The sessions also included interactive question-and-answer engagements, during which health experts addressed misconceptions and provided clarity on menstrual health issues.
In addition, the programme incorporated sensitisation discussions on the role of boys and men in supporting girls during menstruation. Participants were encouraged to foster empathy, respect, and supportive behaviour, while discouraging stigma and discriminatory attitudes within school environments.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Emefa Agbana emphasised that menstrual health is central to dignity and educational equity for girls. She noted that inadequate attention to menstrual hygiene challenges could negatively affect academic performance and social development.
“Menstrual health is a matter of dignity, confidence, education, and equal opportunity,” she stated, urging parents, caregivers, and stakeholders to prioritise the menstrual needs of girls.
She further cautioned that neglecting such needs could expose vulnerable girls to unhealthy coping behaviours that may impact their future prospects.
On his part, Mr. Gabriel King Akpalu urged boys and men to actively support girls during menstruation, stressing responsibility and empathy through his “MENSTRUAL” advocacy framework, which promotes respect, understanding, and leadership in addressing menstrual health challenges.
During the engagement, a female teacher from one of the beneficiary schools appealed for the construction of changing rooms in schools to enable girls to manage menstruation more comfortably and with dignity during school hours.
The UCCF reaffirmed its commitment to advancing menstrual dignity, empowering young girls, and advocating for improved and supportive school environments. The organisation noted that the initiative forms part of a series of similar community-based interventions aimed at strengthening adolescent health education and support systems across the region.
