Keeping Girls in School

Practicing how to use the kits

It was a bonding of sisters. All the P4, P5, P6, the female teachers and the school secretary gathered in a classroom during break time. Nurse Olivia and Betty started a frank discussion on menstruation: what it is and  why we get it.  Then we talked about what to do once it happens.  Betty shared her story with the girls and told them that many girls stopped going to school once this happens to them, but that women can still go to work and school.  We  showed them the DaysforGirls hygiene kits and how to use them. The kits are designed to allow girls to attend school everyday. See their website for more information on this amazing organization.  Each table of girls received a kit to explore and try out.  We laughed and clapped as the girls successfully demonstrated  how the kits should be used.

Olivia talking to the girls

Afterwards all the P6 girls received a  kit and the other girls were told to come talk to teacher  Betty or Hawa, the school secretary when then needed a it.  Betty and Olivia encouraged the girls to  talk to their parents about what they learned.  Betty also plans to talk to the parents next week when they are gathered for the celebration the Gate City Church  team will hold here at ROA.

P6 Girls With their kits

Everyone was so  grateful for the kits. I can’t thank enough,  the ladies of Grace Lutheran church, especially Charlene Farwell who organized the project,  and all those who donated  time, materials  and money. 

If any sewers out there would like more information on how to make these kits, let me know at karla@hands4uganda.org.