The Department of Educational Psychology in the Faculty of Education at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) observed World Menstruation Day on 28 May 2026 by hosting a meaningful community engagement initiative titled “Pad Up to Speak Up” at the Carl Sithole Children’s Home.
The event formed part of a project aimed at addressing period poverty and promoting menstrual dignity among school-going girls in vulnerable communities. Beneficiaries of the initiative included the Carl Sithole Children’s Home and the Othandweni Children’s Home.
Period poverty remains a significant barrier to education for many young girls. Research indicates that it results in girls losing up to 90 school days per year, negatively affecting academic performance and long-term opportunities. Beyond its educational impact, period poverty is also linked to psychological and social challenges, including stigma, shame, and reduced self-esteem, often contributing to higher dropout rates.
Through initiatives such as this, UJ continues to respond to pressing social justice issues that directly affect access to education and learner wellbeing. The Faculty of Education’s engagement reflects the University’s broader strategic commitment to social impact, sustainability, and the empowerment of marginalised communities.
The programme was facilitated by Prof Lucia Munongi from the Department of Educational Psychology, who opened the event and guided proceedings. She emphasised the importance of menstrual health education in restoring dignity and confidence among young girls, stating: “Menstrual health is not only a biological issue, but a matter of dignity, confidence, and educational equity. No learner should miss school because of a natural biological process.”
A health education session was delivered by professional nurse Sr Dinah Melato, who spoke on menarche, menstrual health, and feminine hygiene, providing essential guidance for young girls navigating adolescence.
The programme also included a mindfulness activity led by Ms Athena Clayton and Prof Daphney Mawila-Chauke, offering emotional and psychological support through reflective and calming practices designed to promote wellbeing.
A key highlight of the event was the formal handing over of sanitary towels and hygiene products, facilitated by Prof Siseko M. Kumalo (Ali Mazrui Centre for Higher Education Studies), whose generous contribution provided the bulk of the donated supplies. He remarked: “Supporting menstrual dignity is a practical and necessary intervention in advancing educational equity and ensuring that no young person is left behind due to lack of basic sanitary resources.”
The event concluded with closing remarks delivered by Dr Nancy Mabaso from the Department of Educational Psychology, who emphasised the importance of community engagement in addressing menstrual health challenges, continued advocacy and education, through a guided pledge that was taken by the girls and their care mothers present.
Through Pad Up to Speak Up, UJ and the Faculty of Education reaffirmed its commitment to breaking stigma around menstruation, promoting dignity, and ensuring that no learner’s education is compromised due to lack of access to basic sanitary products.
