Menstrual health and hygiene remain a key issue among girls and concerned education stakeholders due to their potential to inhibit girls from being punctual in school. Therefore, on the global day for Menstrual Hygiene, the Ghana Education Service not only commemorate the day but also used the occasion to educate both girls and boys on menstruation and menstrual hygiene management.

Aside from the government’s distribution of free sanitary pads to all menstrual-age school girls across the country as a form of support, the need to educate them on how to care for and maintain themselves during such a sensitive period remains paramount to the Service. 

The 2026 Menstrual Hygiene Day, held on Tuesday 26th May, was hosted by Okuapeman Senior High School under the theme, “Together for a Period Friendly Ghana.” The event brought together government officials, education stakeholders, development partners, students, traditional authorities, and invited guests to promote awareness and advocate for improved menstrual hygiene practices among girls.

The Member of Parliament for Akuapim North, Hon. Sammi Awuku, who graced the occasion, observed that empowering girls through menstrual hygiene education and support systems was essential in improving school attendance, confidence, and academic performance among young girls.

The Deputy Director-General (MS) of the Ghana Education Service, Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi, who represented the Director-General, maintained that no girl should be denied quality education because of menstruation. She called for intensified advocacy, improved sanitation facilities, and sustained public education to help eliminate stigma associated with menstruation.

The Eastern Regional Director of Education, Dr Mrs Ivy Asantewaa Owusu, who hosted the event, stated in her welcome address that creating a safe and supportive environment for girls was a collective responsibility. She encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives aimed at promoting menstrual health and dignity among school girls.

Representatives from partner organisations such as UNICEF, UNFPA, CONIWAS, and the World Bank also delivered solidarity messages, stressing the importance of access to menstrual hygiene education, water and sanitation facilities, and continuous awareness creation in schools and communities.

Other key personalities including the Chairperson of the event, Madam Rosemond Amoako-Apenteng, the Municipal Chief Executive, and traditional leaders, all reaffirmed their commitment to supporting adolescent health, girl-child education, and efforts towards building a more period-friendly Ghana.

A key highlight of the event was the astonishing special cultural display by the School for the Deaf, Mampong, which thrilled participants and added colour and excitement to the commemoration.

The programme successfully created awareness, encouraged open discussions on menstrual health, and reinforced the need for collective action in ending period stigma and promoting the well-being of every girl child in Ghana.

#MenstrualHygieneDay2026
#PeriodFriendlyGhana
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#EndPeriodStigma