By Justina Auta

Tabitha Cumi Foundation (TCF), an NGO has trained peer mentors and guidance counselors in FCT, Lagos and Benue States on menstrual health hygiene management and mainstreaming prevention and response mechanisms on gender-based violence in secondary schools.

Mrs Nendirmwa Ohah, Programme Manager, TCF, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

Ohah explained that the initiative was part of its Always Keeping Girls in School project funded by Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) America.

She said that the initiative also provided psychosocial support and reproductive health education to encourage consistent school attendance among girls and challenge menstrual myths and stigmas.

“We trained guidance counselors to support girls in establishing emergency pad banks within their schools.

“They were also equipped with the knowledge needed to assist peer mentors during Safe Space learning sessions.

“Additionally, the counselors were empowered to challenge and disrupt myths and taboos surrounding menstruation.

“Our goal is to ensure that girls understand menstruation is a natural and dignified experience, not something to be ashamed of.”

She noted that many girls, especially in underserved communities, lacked access to sanitary products.

According to her, this often results in them missing school or leaving early during their menstrual periods.

“For example, a girl who menstruates for five days each month and has no access to pads could miss up to 15 school days per term.

“Through this training, guidance counselors are now better prepared to support these girls and help them stay in school.

“What’s more, the impact of the programme extends beyond the initial schools involved.

“As counselors are transferred to other schools, they continue to replicate the knowledge and systems, ensuring more girls have the support they need to complete their education.”

Ohah, therefore, reiterated the commitment of the organisation towards providing support to marginalised women and girls, which would enhance their dignity and empower them to function effectively in the society. (NAN)(www.nannews.com)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru