Modules on Menstrual Health, Hygiene Launched

The national launch of five innovative teaching-learning modules on thematic areas which include disabilities, gender, teachers and educators, young adults and nutrition, took place on June 13 in New Delhi.

The modules are accompanied by a comprehensive national survey and gap analysis report on menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM). This was done under the “Keepgirlsinschool” initiative with PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) as the advocacy partners.

According to a press release, Anil K Antony, vice president and trustee, Navoothan Foundation and a member of BJP was chief guest. Prof Uma Kumar, Professor and Head, Department of Rheumatology, AIIMS, was the guest of honour.

The partnership announced this week adopts a holistic approach with a strong gender perspective, firmly committed to advancing MHHM through education and the advocacy of effective menstrual policies.

The release of these teaching-learning modules will provide learners, educators, menstruators, and community leaders with indispensable resources and strategies for comprehensive understanding and skill development in managing menstruation, while driving awareness about its societal impact,’ said the release.

UNESCO and a private company also presented a survey and gap analysis report alongside a series of short films capturing various facets of MHHM and highlighting the diverse experiences and perspectives surrounding this crucial topic from seven states across India.

It was complemented by an invigorating and vivid “Pride of Period Anthem” that aims to eliminate barriers and stigma related to periods and cultivate a brighter future for all menstruators.

The launch event marks a milestone in the joint commitment to MHHM between UNESCO and business. “It was an honour to witness this initiative and I congratulate everybody involved in this revolutionary project. We have proudly witnessed, over the years, that we have more and more policies and programmes in place to reduce and eliminate the problems faced by menstruating women in various aspects of their life. We hope to bring more such initiatives in the coming years,” said Antony.

“Menstruation has historically been regarded with secrecy, which is particularly quite problematic for school-going young girls as it creates hesitance and misinformation. Menstruation is not something to be hidden and I appreciate how this project is breaking taboos and barriers,” said Prof Kumar.

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