Equipping Teachers, Empowering Girls: Strengthening Menstrual Hygiene Management in Schools
For many girls in rural Zambia, managing menstrual hygiene at school has long been a challenge, often leading to absenteeism and reduced academic performance. However, through World Vision Zambia’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program, change is taking root. By training teachers and equipping students with essential hygiene knowledge, the program is creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment, ensuring that no child is left behind due to preventable hygiene-related issues.
“Following the training of these 55 teachers from 36 schools within our operation area, we expect learners, especially girl children, to be more present in school. This will also lead to reduced absenteeism, resulting in increased performance,” explained Mulambwa Sikopo, Manyinga/Mufumbwe Cluster Manager. “Children will also be more assertive, confident, and able to talk about their entitlements on issues related to sanitation and hygiene in schools and at home. I wish to encourage DEBS offices to own the process and ensure the models are implemented in all schools.”
The program incorporates key models, including Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), WASH UP!, and School-Led Total Sanitation (SLTS). These initiatives aim to break the silence around menstrual health, improve hygiene practices, and foster a culture of dignity and respect among learners.
“This integrated training will benefit learners by breaking the silence on menstrual hygiene, especially,” noted Dichimbi Lufunda, a Guidance Teacher at Wishimanga Day Secondary School.
The training is proving to be a transformational intervention for teachers in rural schools.
“For our school, we’re already seeing positive mindset change among learners, especially boys. They are more serious when discussing MHM issues than girls,” said Sangaliya Chadrick from Chatwika Primary School. “This gives us a positive indication that issues of stigma against girls in relation to MHM will not be a big problem. We’re also positive that because of WASH UP! activities, the spread of waterborne and other related diseases in the community will be reduced because we will use pupils as ambassadors of WASH UP! activities. We are so grateful to World Vision for these life-changing models.”
The impact extends beyond schools, influencing entire communities. Prisca Mwiinde from Kawanda Secondary School emphasised the long-term benefits.
“The training was packed with life-touching issues, which was very educational. Specifically, MHM, WASH UP!, and SLTS will benefit the school by increasing the number of latrines and water points. Learners will actively participate in SLTS, which will help reduce some diseases, improve attendance, and enhance performance.”
Chiyangi Avia from Chatwika Primary School highlighted how WASH UP! is shaping young learners into hygiene champions.
“Learners are taught and groomed to be great ambassadors of water, sanitation, and hygiene, which will help improve living standards at school and home. This will enhance teaching and learning, ultimately contributing to attaining Sustainable Development Goal number 4.”
The training also fosters gender equality and empowerment by educating boys and girls on menstrual health and sanitation.
Gwen Samakonga, a Chilumba Day Secondary School Guidance Teacher, outlined the benefits.
“Pupils are gaining more knowledge on menstruation and how to manage it effectively. With an understanding of physical changes at puberty for both genders, they learn to adapt and accept these changes as normal. Respect for each other is enhanced as learners recognise and embrace their uniqueness. Additionally, the skills imparted in making reusable pads will help reduce the financial burden of purchasing disposable ones.”
World Vision Zambia’s commitment to WASH programs is more than just about hygiene, it’s about dignity, inclusion, and opportunity. By breaking taboos, equipping teachers, and empowering students, the program ensures that every child, especially girls, can pursue their education confidently and without barriers. Through continued collaboration with schools and local authorities, this initiative is shaping a future where clean water, sanitation, and hygiene are fundamental rights, not privileges.