SUPPORT HEALTH NEEDS OF 1000 ADOLESCENTS IN UGANDA

Promoting Hygiene and Dignity for Adolescent Girls

Executive Summary

This quarter, 60 adolescent girls in primary schools were empowered through targeted menstrual hygiene education and life skills sessions. Although the program aimed to support 200 girls, implementation was scaled down due to funding limitations. However, the training significantly improved knowledge, confidence, and positive attitudes towards menstrual health management among the girls reached.

Key Activities Conducted

1. Menstrual Hygiene Training (MHM)
• Conducted in 2 primary schools for 60 girls aged 10–16.
• Sessions focused on understanding the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, managing menstruation without shame, and combating stigma.
2. Life Skills & Self-Esteem Coaching
• Facilitated interactive group discussions on puberty, emotional changes, and assertiveness.
• Girls reported feeling more prepared, confident, and less embarrassed to talk about menstruation.
3. Teacher and Parent Engagement
• 4 female teachers participated in supportive supervision during training.
• Parents of participating girls were sensitized through school meetings to help break taboos and foster openness at home.

Outcomes & Impact

• Trained 60 girls
• Knowledge increase on MHM 70% baseline and 95% post-training
• Based on pre/post quizzes: Reported confidence at school, 35% baseline and 82% post-training

Voices from Participants:

• “I now understand my body and I am not afraid anymore.”
• “The session helped me stop hiding during my periods.”

Conclusion

This quarter’s menstrual hygiene training made a significant impact on the lives of 60 adolescent girls by equipping them with knowledge, confidence, and essential life skills. These girls are now better prepared to manage menstruation with dignity and without shame. The positive feedback and behavioural change observed confirm the program’s relevance and urgency. With additional support, we can expand this impact to reach the remaining underserved girls. Your partnership can help transform knowledge into lasting change—ensuring that no girl misses school or feels ashamed because of her period.