Activity Report
Location: Korando Educational Center
Activity Date: 28.05.2024
Start Time: 3:30 PM End Time: 4:30 PM
Facilitators: Ruth Obilo, Jule Schlageter, Laura Ridderbusch, Spencer Akoth, Laura Coggiola, Vivian Atieno
Number of Participants: 75
Male: 33 Female: 42
Activity Purpose/ Summary:
Last week, we conducted a comprehensive educational program on menstrual hygiene, aimed at fostering a better understanding and promoting supportive attitudes among students. The initiative was divided into two distinct sessions to address the unique needs of both girls and boys in our school.
The first session focused on educating the girls about menstrual hygiene management. This included detailed discussions and practical demonstrations of period materials such as sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. The goal was to ensure that every girl left with a thorough understanding of the menstrual process, how to manage it hygienically, and the different options available for period care. This session also provided a safe space for the girls to ask questions and share their experiences, thereby reducing anxiety and building confidence in managing their menstrual health.
On May 28th, we extended this educational initiative to the boys by organizing a separate session specifically designed to sensitize them about menstruation. This session aimed to break down the stigma, taboos, and misinformation surrounding menstruation. The boys were educated on the biological aspects of menstruation, the challenges girls face during their periods, and the importance of their role in creating a supportive and stigma-free environment. The session emphasized the significance of empathy, respect, and support, encouraging boys to become allies in promoting menstrual health and gender equality.
Both sessions highlighted the importance of inclusive education in promoting understanding and cooperation between genders. By addressing menstruation openly and honestly with both girls and boys, we aimed to foster a school environment where menstrual health is normalized, and students feel supported and respected.
Personnel Input:
The facilitators of these sessions were heartened to see the high level of engagement and interest from both the girls and boys. The initial session with the girls was instrumental in building their confidence and understanding of menstrual hygiene. It was rewarding to see them actively participate in discussions and demonstrations, and to observe their willingness to ask questions and share their experiences.
The follow-up session with the boys was equally impactful. It was encouraging to see the boys’ genuine curiosity and empathy towards the subject. Their willingness to learn and support their female peers was a positive step towards breaking down menstrual stigma and fostering a more inclusive school environment. Both sessions underscored the importance of inclusive education in promoting mutual respect and understanding between genders.
In both sessions, the key aspects addressed were: pain management during menstruation, hygiene aspects, the taboos revolving around menstruation, and how to raise a generation of supportive men in regards to menstruation.
Achievements:
For Girls:
– Enhanced Understanding: Girls gained a comprehensive understanding of menstrual hygiene, learning about the biological processes, the importance of maintaining hygiene, and how to effectively use various menstrual products.
– Increased Confidence: Through practical demonstrations, the girls learned to manage their periods confidently, without fear or embarrassment.
– Open Communication: The session encouraged girls to openly discuss menstruation, helping to reduce stigma and create a supportive environment for sharing experiences and concerns.
For Boys:
– Awareness and Empathy: Boys developed a deeper understanding of menstruation, fostering empathy towards their female peers and recognizing the challenges that girls face.
– Supportive Attitudes: The session emphasized the importance of being supportive and respectful, helping boys understand how they can contribute to a positive environment for girls.
– Informed Advocacy: Boys learned how to actively support menstrual hygiene initiatives, becoming advocates for gender equality and helping to break down menstrual stigma.
– Improved Gender Relations: The session for boys enhanced overall gender dynamics in the class, promoting mutual respect and understanding.
Unanticipated Achievements:
-Breaking Cultural Barriers: The sessions were effective in challenging and changing traditional cultural taboos and misconceptions about menstruation, fostering a more progressive mindset among students.
-Peer Support: The sessions cultivated a sense of community, with students showing a willingness to support each other more openly and discussing menstruation without embarrassment.
Supporting Partners:
Korando Educational Center.
