Boys Enlisted In Menstrual Health Awareness Campaign In Bauchi
Efforts to break the stigma surrounding menstruation received a boost in Bauchi State on Wednesday as adolescent boys joined girls in a menstrual health awareness programme organised by Nurture and Empower Her Initiative (NEHI).
Efforts to break the stigma surrounding menstruation received a boost inBauchi Stateon Wednesday as adolescent boys joined girls in a menstrual health awareness programme organised by Nurture and Empower Her Initiative (NEHI). The programme featured the unveiling of “Bleed with Pride,” a handbook authored by NEHI Executive Director Florence Uzoanya to guide adolescent girls onmenstrual hygienemanagement. Held at Government Girls College,Bauchi State,the event attracted students from six secondary schools, including boys who were trained on menstrual health issues and the importance of supporting girls during their menstrual cycles. Uzoanya said involving boys in menstrual health education was crucial to ending discrimination, teasing, and misconceptions often faced by girls. She explained that the handbook was developed to provide girls with reliable information on menstruation and help them navigate puberty with confidence and dignity. The participants also received practical training on menstrual tracking and the production of reusable sanitary pads. Principal of Government Girls College, Hadiza Sagir Ibrahim, described the initiative as timely, noting that menstrual hygiene education can improve school attendance and academic performance among girls. “At this stage, no girl should miss school because of menstruation. With proper knowledge and support, girls can manage their periods without disruption to their education,” she said. Some of the male participants said the programme had changed their perception of menstruation and taught them the importance of empathy and support. The girls, on their part, expressed satisfaction with the handbook, saying it provided clear answers to questions they previously found difficult to discuss openly. The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to promote menstrual dignity, reduce stigma and empower adolescent girls through education and awareness. Please follow and like us: