Girls at Bubare Mixed Primary School in Rubanda District have received hands-on training in making reusable sanitary pads in a bid to improve menstrual health, reduce absenteeism, and keep more girls in school. The initiative, supported by Rubanda District Woman MP Evelyn Ninsiima Kikafunda through the National Planning Authority, is also equipping learners with practical life skills.

Girls at Bubare Mixed Primary School in Bubare Town Council, Rubanda District, have received practical training in making reusable afro sanitary pads as part of efforts to improve menstrual health and hygiene management while reducing school absenteeism.

The initiative is sponsored by the Rubanda District Woman Member of Parliament, Evelyn Ninsiima Kikafunda, through the National Planning Authority (NPA).

During the training, the girls acquired practical skills to make reusable sanitary pads, an intervention expected to help them manage menstruation with dignity, improve school attendance, and enhance academic performance.

The headteacher of Bubare Mixed Day and Boarding Primary School, Lillian Ayebazibwe, welcomed the program, describing it as timely and beneficial to learners.

She noted that although government provides capitation grants, the funds are insufficient to meet all learners' needs, including emergency sanitary pads for girls.

Ayebazibwe appealed to the government to support the decentralization of reusable sanitary pad production to rural areas, saying many parents and learners cannot easily access or afford the products.

Several pupils who participated in the training expressed gratitude for the initiative, saying the skills will help them maintain proper hygiene during menstruation, remain in school with confidence, and avoid embarrassment.

Rubanda District Woman MP Evelyn Ninsiima Kikafunda said the initiative is intended to empower girls to manage menstruation with dignity while promoting education and personal hygiene.

She emphasized that menstruation should never prevent a girl from accessing education, noting that equipping learners with skills to make reusable sanitary pads will improve attendance, reduce absenteeism, and boost their confidence.

The legislator commended the National Planning Authority for supporting the program and thanked school administrators, teachers, and learners for embracing the initiative, saying their cooperation is essential in improving menstrual health and educational outcomes for girls in Rubanda District.