“I couldn't concentrate on studies during my menstruation. Whenever my period began while at school, I simply rushed back home,” recalled Niruta. According to her teachers, many female students missed classes during their menstruation cycle.
In order to overcome the problem, the school and students have started jointly contributing Rs 5,000 per month for a fund meant for purchasing sanitary pads.
The girls at Somnath Higher Secondary School no longer have to stay away from school during their period. The availability of sanitary pads is a huge relief for them and they are now attending the school regularly.
“Female students can go to the office and ask for sanitary pads without feeling uncomfortable,” informed Laxmi Poudel, a school teacher.
Similarly, Khem Lal Sharma, principal of Bhagwati High School, informed that they have also set up a fund for buying sanitary pads. “The students of grade six to 10 give small amount of money and the school contributes the rest,” said Sharma.
Although District Education Office (DEO) has directed schools to make sanitary pads available for female students, many schools are still yet to comply with the instruction.
Apart from schools in Sunwal Municipality, schools in Ramgram Municipality, Kawasoti Municipality, Gaidakot Municipality and other municipalities of the district are found to be providing sanitary pads to the students, informed Toyanath Lamsal, assistant district education officer.
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