The Rotary Club of Kitante has officially launched the Safe Shield Project at KCCA Primary School in Kamwokya, an initiative aimed at improving menstrual hygiene education and providing practical skills in the use of reusable sanitary pads for schoolgirls.
During the launch event, Rotary Club of Kitante President Maximilia Byenkya addressed pupils, highlighting the project’s dual goal of menstrual health awareness and hands-on training.
“We are here to raise awareness on menstrual hygiene and to train young girls on how to use reusable sanitary pads,” Byenkya said. “Many families struggle to afford disposable pads, which often leads to girls missing school during their periods. Through the Safe Shield Project, we aim to eliminate that barrier to education.”
Byenkya emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of reusable pads, noting that each pad can last up to two years with proper care. She also encouraged entrepreneurship among students.
“When you learn how to make these pads, you can even sell them to your peers or in your community. It’s not just about hygiene, but also about empowerment and sustainability,” she added.
In a session that included both girls and boys, Byenkya addressed the social stigma surrounding menstruation and urged boys to be allies in promoting understanding and respect.
“Periods are a normal part of life for your sisters, mothers, and classmates. We want boys to support, not shame. If a girl has an accident, quietly help her instead of laughing,” she advised.
Beyond menstrual hygiene, the Safe Shield Project also covered broader topics such as early pregnancy, sexual abuse, and reporting mechanisms. Pupils were encouraged to speak out in cases of abuse and to seek help from trusted adults.
The pupils actively participated in interactive quizzes and demonstrations on how to use and care for reusable pads, signaling strong engagement with the initiative.
Francis Katabira, Headmaster of KCCA Primary School, expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club for its continued support, highlighting the club’s prior contributions to the school.
“Rotarians have been instrumental in improving our school infrastructure and learning environment,” Katabira said. “They renovated our toilets, installed water tanks and pumps, introduced new teaching methods, and even involved parents in the learning process. This new project is yet another step forward.”
The Safe Shield Project adds to a growing list of interventions by the Rotary Club of Kitante at KCCA Primary School, encompassing sanitation, water access, literacy, and innovative education practices.
As the program rolls out, stakeholders hope it will serve as a model for other schools across Uganda to adopt similar initiatives that support the health, dignity, and education of young girls.
