Birhanu

My name is Birhanu Tegegne Sendek, and I have been working as a civics teacher for the past seventeen years in several schools. Before joining Ayermenged Primary School in 2024, I was employed at Zege Secondary School. At that time, I was unaware of menstrual hygiene or the availability of sanitary pads on the school premises.

When I arrived at Ayermenged Primary School as vice principal, three girls came to my office asking for sanitary pads. This was new to me, and I responded with surprise, “What?” One of the girls explained, “My [period] just started.” I asked, “Oh, do we have sanitary pads here at school?” The students murmured, saying if Gash Gete or Etiye Abiyot were present, they would provide them.

I immediately called Gete, a former teacher, to inquire about the situation. He informed me where the pads were located and instructed me to distribute them. I gave the pads to the students, but I was concerned about where they would change. The teachers then explained to me in detail about menstruation management in school and Project WISE. They shared how students and the school community are informed about the collection, distribution, and changing of sanitary pads.

Nowadays, I have completely changed my previous perception and am more attentive to the needs of menstruating girls. Finally, I would like to suggest expanding this excellent experience and work to Zege Secondary School.