A persistent lack of access to sanitary pads is taking a toll on girls' education in the Birim North Municipality of the Eastern Region, with many female students missing school during their menstrual periods.

Juliet Akyaa, the Municipal Girl Child Education Coordinator, highlighted that the absence of free sanitary towels has contributed significantly to school absenteeism among girls, affecting their academic performance and overall well-being.

In a timely intervention, two Non-Governmental organisations—Gibicts Centre for Community and Youth Development and the Ntiamoah Foundation—have donated over 200 cartons of sanitary pads to support female students across nine schools in the municipality.

Each beneficiary will receive a six-month supply, a move expected to reduce absenteeism and help keep girls in school.

The donation, which forms part of activities to mark the 2025 World Menstrual Hygiene Day, aims to empower girls by removing barriers that hinder their access to education during menstruation.

Leaders of the NGOs called on teachers to ensure the pads are distributed fairly and reach the most vulnerable students, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on effective and responsible distribution.