On May 28, 2024, the Association for Sustainable Women Empowerment (ASWE) embarked on a heartwarming mission to Morning Dew Nursery & Primary School in Buea. This visit was more than just an outreach event; it was a commitment to education, women empowerment, and social responsibility.
With a focus on health, personal development, and self-confidence, ASWE’s initiative sought to create a lasting impact on the young minds shaping the future. Partnering with local civil society organizations and volunteers, the visit emphasized the importance of education, hygiene, and empowerment from an early age.
Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Health
A key highlight of the visit was an interactive session on menstrual health, led by the esteemed Dr. Pepandjo Rodgerson. In many communities, menstruation remains a taboo subject, leaving young girls uninformed and unprepared. ASWE believes that education is empowerment, and breaking these stigmas is crucial for gender equality and self-esteem.
Dr. Rodgerson’s session covered:
- Understanding menstruation as a natural biological process.
- Dispelling myths and breaking the shame associated with menstrual cycles.
- Encouraging open conversations on menstrual health among students and teachers.
The students were highly engaged, asking questions and actively participating in discussions. The session left them feeling more confident and informed, ensuring that no girl feels isolated or ashamed due to a lack of knowledge.
Practical Demonstrations & Hygiene Education
Following the educational session, ASWE volunteer Leticia Sengeu led a practical demonstration on menstrual hygiene management, covering:
- The proper way to use and dispose of sanitary pads.
- The importance of good hygiene practices during menstruation.
- Recommendations for comfortable and affordable menstrual products.
These practical insights were invaluable, ensuring that young girls felt prepared and supported in managing their menstrual health.
Hygiene Kits Distribution: Restoring Dignity
As part of its social responsibility efforts, ASWE distributed essential hygiene kits to students. Each kit included:
- Sanitary pads
- Toothbrushes & toothpaste
- Soaps & lotions
This initiative aimed to restore dignity, promote self-care, and encourage healthy habits among the students. Seeing the joy and appreciation on the children’s faces reaffirmed ASWE’s belief that small acts of kindness can create a profound impact.
Gratitude, Unity, and Community Spirit
The school extended a warm welcome to the ASWE team, with staff expressing heartfelt gratitude for the empowerment-driven initiative. The delegates from the Women Empowerment, Family, and Social Affairs sector praised the organization for its commitment to grassroots change and child development.
In an unexpected yet touching gesture, the school prepared a delightful breakfast for ASWE members, reinforcing the sense of unity, collaboration, and shared responsibility for empowering young minds.
Building a Future of Confidence and Equality
As the visit concluded, the students of Morning Dew Nursery & Primary School left with more than just hygiene kits—they left with knowledge, confidence, and hope. ASWE remains committed to fostering sustainable women empowerment, ensuring that young girls and boys grow up in an environment that nurtures equality, education, and self-awareness.
Join the Movement!
Are you passionate about education, civil society, and women empowerment? Partner with ASWE to support initiatives that uplift and empower future generations. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stigmas, and create a world where every child has the tools to thrive.
