The Interact Club of St. John, in collaboration with the Feminism Club, has launched a campaign aimed at addressing pad poverty and promoting menstrual health awareness within the community.

Menstrual hygiene is a basic human right, yet many girls continue to face challenges accessing sanitary products. Studies indicate that in Ethiopia around 1 in 10 girls miss school due to menstruation related difficulties, including lack of access to sanitary pads and proper hygiene facilities. Missing several days of school each month can significantly affect students’ learning, confidence, and overall well-being.

Recognizing this issue, the Interact Club, with the support of the Feminism Club, has begun a sanitary pads donation initiative to support women and girls who struggle to access these essential products. Through this effort, students are encouraged to donate sanitary pads and help raise awareness about the importance of menstrual hygiene and dignity.

Beyond providing products, the campaign also aims to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and foster open conversations about health, equality, and compassion within the school community.

Both clubs invite students, teachers, and members of the school community to participate by contributing sanitary products and spreading awareness about the issue. By working together, the initiative hopes to ensure that no girl has to miss school because of her period.

Through collective action and empathy, the St. John community continues to demonstrate its commitment to service, inclusion, and empowering others.

MARCH 2026

INTERACT CLUB OF ST JOHN

BEREKET HABTE

Submitted by: berekethabtegizaw@stjohn.edu.et | Collaborators: Feminism Club via CMS