Water and Pads for School Girls – Empowerment for Life
“Breaking Barriers, Promoting Dignity, Empowering Girls for Life.”
The Water and Pads for School Girls – Empowerment for Life program is an initiative of RUWON Nepal that promotes menstrual health, hygiene, dignity, and wellbeing among adolescent girls in schools across Nepal.
Every year, RUWON Nepal conducts Menstrual Health and Hygiene Education and Awareness Workshops for adolescent girls, helping them gain accurate knowledge about menstruation, reproductive health, and personal hygiene. The program aims to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and create a supportive environment where girls can manage their periods safely, confidently, and with dignity.
In many communities in Nepal, girls continue to face challenges related to inadequate menstrual health education, limited access to sanitary products, insufficient Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, and harmful social and cultural taboos. These barriers can negatively affect girls’ health, self-esteem, school attendance, and participation in daily and community activities.
Through interactive workshops, participants learn about menstrual health, hygiene management, reproductive health, nutrition, and self-care practices. The sessions also encourage open discussion, helping to dispel myths and misconceptions associated with menstruation.
As part of the program, adolescent girls who have reached menstruation age receive sanitary kits and educational materials to support safe and hygienic menstrual management.
Program Objectives
- Increase awareness and knowledge of menstrual health and hygiene among adolescent girls.
- Promote healthy and hygienic menstrual practices.
- Reduce stigma, discrimination, and misconceptions related to menstruation.
- Improve girls’ confidence, wellbeing, and participation in school and community activities.
- Support better school attendance and educational outcomes for adolescent girls.
- Advocate for improved Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools and communities.
Impact
Through this initiative, girls gain the knowledge, resources, and confidence needed to manage menstruation safely and with dignity. The program contributes to improved health outcomes, increased school attendance, enhanced self-esteem, and greater opportunities for girls to participate fully in education and community life.
By empowering girls with knowledge and essential hygiene resources, RUWON Nepal is helping create healthier, more inclusive, and supportive environments where every girl can thrive.
