The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bauchi State Chapter, has advocated hands-on training on the production of reusable sanitary pads to promote menstrual hygiene and management among adolescent girls.
The one-day training was held on Saturday at Liman Katagum community in Bauchi State.
Mrs Rashida Yusuf, Chairperson of NAWOJ in the state, said the training was aimed at improving menstrual hygiene and management, particularly among,out of school, underserved and vulnerable girls.
Yusuf said the hands-on training and advocacy engagement was organised by the Bauchi State Government in partnership with NAWOJ and with support from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
According to her, issues surrounding menstrual hygiene have become a public health concern that requires sustained attention.
She stressed the need to extend awareness campaigns to communities outside local government headquarters to ensure that no girl is left behind.
"We are here to promote menstrual hygiene and advocate to our leaders on the importance of menstrual health and hygiene.
"We believe this hands-on training in communities will enable our girls to become better informed and confident in managing their menstrual health.
"Participants should also step down the knowledge gained to their peers, family members and other members of the community.
"If you perfect the skills of producing reusable sanitary pads, it can also become a source of income for you," she said.
In her presentation, a health worker, Mrs Jummai Haruna, re-echoed the need for girls to speak out, initiate discussions with parents about menstruation and seek accurate information to make the right decision.
She explained that personal hygiene and proper menstrual management play a vital role in ensuring safe and healthy menstrual periods
The health worker educated participants on the signs and symptoms associated with menstruation, menstrual care practices, hygiene measures, and ways of addressing myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.
"As girls, we need to understand the symptoms, signs, hygiene practices, myths and misconceptions related to menstruation and menstrual health," she said.
Yusuf appreciated the State Government's effort in providing Adolescent corners to promote menstrual hygiene and other reproductive health issues.
However, officials of Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board and Rural Water and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) acknowledged that the activity would provide a platform for healthy lifestyle among girls.
The training featured practical demonstrations on the production and use of reusable sanitary pads as part of efforts to improve menstrual dignity and access to affordable menstrual hygiene products among adolescent girls.
In his remarks, the Community leader of Liman Katagum, Alhaji Yakubu Abubakar appreciated the organization.
He said that the capacity building has impacted on numerous segments in the life cycle of girls
He said that focusing on menstrual hygiene would promote better health outcomes.
He said that the organisers have developed skills and provide a platform for generating income amongst the girls.
"We are in a community and we have remote areas around; so this is a source of empowerment. Those around colleges can also bring succour that would reduce poverty amongst girls and women in communities and villages.”
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