President John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong confidence in the transformative potential of the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative, launched on Thursday, April 24, emphasizing its ability to improve school attendance and academic performance among girls.
Speaking at the launch event, President Mahama highlighted a critical barrier many schoolgirls face—missing school during their menstrual periods due to the inability of their families to afford sanitary pads.
Citing research, he pointed out that some girls miss up to five school days each month, amounting to nearly 40 days annually. This absenteeism, he explained, affects their academic progress, diminishes self-confidence, and widens the gap between them and their peers.
The President underscored the long-term vision of the initiative, which aims to distribute free sanitary pads to schoolgirls nationwide.
“This is not a one-time gesture; this is a sustained policy commitment, and we will expand it with your support and your feedback. To our teachers, headmistresses and headmasters, you are on the front line of education. You see the tears of our girls.”
“You note their absence from school, and you note their struggles. Now you will see a transformation in our girls. They will show up to school with confidence. They will come to class with dignity, and they will be able to focus on the lessons you teach,” he said.
President Mahama noted that the initiative will ease financial pressures on families while enhancing the educational experience and overall well-being of girls.
‘I appointed you to solve problems; deliver or step aside’ – Mahama to Ministers
