Pad a Girl Initiative and STEM Outreach Events
Program Overview
The PAD A GIRL initiative aims to reduce stigma and limitations associated with menstruation for improved education and to bridge the gap in quality STEM education for students (10-18 years old) in underserved schools in Zambia. iLEAD Foundation organizes hands-on training where the girls learn how to produce reusable sanitary pads using locally available materials. Each participant receives a menstrual health education and a reusable sanitary pad kit, ensuring immediate relief and long term self- reliance.
We deliver practical STEM outreach events to foster innovation, critical thinking and career interest in STEM fields among the students. We introduce the girls to the power of Robotics, 3D printing, STEM career talks from industry professionals, speed networking and science quiz competitions.
Through its work, PAD A GIRL Initiative and STEM Career events contributes directly to key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-including No Poverty, Good Health and Wellbeing, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Partnership for the Goals while re-imagining African education as a driver of prosperity, sustainability, and community flourishing
Why
the Program?
The program helps in sensitizing the girl child about sanitary pads is crucial as it plays a significant role in their health, education, and overall well-being. Educating girls about menstrual hygiene management can help break the silence and taboo associated with menstruation, reduce the stigma, and empower them to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Benefits of
Sensitizing them
Educating girls about the importance of using sanitary pads and proper menstrual hygiene practices can prevent infections and other health problems associated with poor menstrual hygiene. Sanitary pads help to absorb menstrual blood and prevent leakages, which in turn helps to keep the genital area clean and dry.
Lack of access to menstrual hygiene products is a significant barrier to girls’ education in many developing countries. By sensitizing girls about sanitary pads, they are more likely to attend school during their menstrual periods, reducing absenteeism and improving their academic performance.
Education about menstrual hygiene management and access to sanitary pads can help girls feel more confident and empowered, enabling them to participate fully in social activities, sports, and other activities during their menstrual periods.
Sensitizing girls about sanitary pads can help to break the silence around menstruation and reduce the stigma associated with it. This can help to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for girls to talk openly about their menstrual experiences.
Sensitizing girls about sanitary pads can help to break the silence around menstruation and reduce the stigma associated with it. This can help to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for girls to talk openly about their menstrual experiences.