President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Free Sanitary Pad Initiative, a nationwide program aimed at improving school attendance and academic performance among girls.
Speaking at the launch on Thursday, April 24, Mahama emphasized the urgent need to address the educational setbacks caused by menstrual-related absenteeism.
He cited research indicating that some girls miss up to five days of school each month—nearly 40 days annually—due to the inability to afford sanitary pads.
“This is not a one-time gesture; this is a sustained policy commitment, and we will expand it with your support and feedback,” he stated.
The President highlighted the initiative’s long-term goal of distributing sanitary pads to schoolgirls across the country, reducing financial strain on families and restoring dignity to affected students.
Addressing educators, he noted, “You see the tears of our girls, you note their absence from school, and you note their struggles. Now you will see a transformation.
They will show up to school with confidence, with dignity, and they will be able to focus on the lessons you teach.” Mahama underscored that the policy not only supports girls’ education but also empowers communities by fostering equity and long-term social development.
