Donate Now Girls’ Clubs: A Catalyst for Change in Rural Nepali Education
According to UNICEF Nepal, 2016, 29 out of 100 students in Nepal who enroll in Grade 1 drop out before reaching Grade 8.
In rural Nepal, where dropout rates are high, particularly for girls, UWS Nepal is addressing a critical barrier to education: menstrual hygiene. UNICEF reports that 29% of students drop out before reaching Grade 8, and struggles related to menstruation and puberty are a major contributing factor for girls over ten. UWS Nepal’s Dropout Prevention Program, in collaboration with Educate a Child, tackles this issue head-on.
UWS Nepal has established Girls’ Clubs in 38 schools across Sankhuwasabha, Gulmi, and Taplejung districts. These clubs provide a safe space for girls to learn about their rights, discuss concerns, and build confidence. They also serve as support mechanisms for at-risk adolescent girls, encouraging them to continue their education. “After being involved in Girls’ Club, I have become fearless and have been able to put my opinion among others. I have also been able to talk about my issues related to menstrual hygiene and help others share their problems as well,” says Reena (name changed), a student of UWS Sathtare.
A key focus of the Girls’ Clubs is Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM). UWS Nepal, in partnership with YUWA, has provided MHM and pad-making training to educators and community members. These trained individuals then facilitate pad-making sessions for Girls’ Clubs, Mothers’ Groups, and other interested community members. The sessions cover MHM awareness, the benefits and proper use of reusable pads, and how to create them.
These sessions have been transformative. “I was able to understand the negative perception regarding menstrual hygiene after becoming a member of the Girls’ Club. I also learned to make reusable sanitary pads through this club,” says Seema (name changed), a Girls’ Club member from UWS Changlewa. The program has reached numerous girls and women, providing them with essential knowledge and practical skills.
The pad-making training has been widely appreciated by mothers’ groups, local communities, and municipalities. Because menstruation remains a taboo subject in rural Nepal, these sessions have created a platform for open discussion and shared experiences. “The pad-making training provided by UWS Nepal was very effective. I have been using the pad myself, which is better than the household pad I used to use. I learned more about menstrual hygiene and the importance of a balanced diet during menstruation. It would be great if this training could be provided to other mothers in the community with little or no knowledge about menstrual hygiene,” says Mala (name changed), a mothers’ group member at UWS Jaisithok.
Due to the program’s success, various municipalities are requesting UWS Nepal to conduct training sessions in more schools and colleges. UWS Nepal plans to expand this vital initiative, further empowering girls and keeping them in school.