A 16- year girl to raise Sh700 million for free sanitary pads to poor female students
What you need to know:
- By raising Sh200 million, she has initiated a significant project to provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls in the northern zones of Tanzania.
Arusha. Promising days lie ahead for underprivileged schoolgirls in Tanzania, all thanks to the incredible efforts of 16-year-old Arjun Kaur Mittal.
By raising Sh200 million, she has initiated a significant project to provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls in the northern zones of Tanzania.
Recognizing the critical demand for menstrual hygiene products among economically disadvantaged girls, Ms. Mittal, a student at North London Collegiate School in Dubai, has spearheaded a transformative effort through her initiative, "Needs Tanzania."
The primary aim of her project is to ensure that schoolgirls in rural areas have access to essential menstrual health products.
To launch this initiative, Ms. Mittal has already provided sanitary pads to 400 girls at Mkonoo Secondary School in Terrat Ward, Arusha.
This critical intervention marks a pivotal moment in the lives of these young students, allowing them to attend school with greater consistency and comfort during their menstrual cycles.
Ms. Mittal's vision doesn't stop here; she plans to secure an additional Sh 700 million annually to maintain and expand this vital initiative.
"My goal is to raise 700 million Shillings to keep female students in Arusha and northern Tanzania healthy and confident," she shared.
Ms. Mittal emphasized the affordability and practicality of the program, stating, "Providing sanitary pads for a year costs as much as a cup of Starbucks coffee."
This pragmatic approach underlines the long-term feasibility of her mission.
At Mkonoo Secondary School, the positive effects of the program are evident.
Girls who once missed school during their menstrual periods now attend classes regularly, their self-esteem bolstered and their fears alleviated.
Both students and teachers have acknowledged the significant improvements in the school environment.
Under the vast Tanzanian sky, the 400 grateful girls at Mkonoo express their heartfelt thanks to Ms. Arjun Kaur Mittal for ushering in a new era marked by dignity, education, and hope.
The provision of menstrual pads symbolizes more than just a practical necessity; it stands as a testament to care and respect.
"Many of us come from poor families, and menstrual health towels seemed like an impossible dream. We are deeply grateful for Ms. Mittal’s generous support," said Amina Mohamed, a Form Two student.
Her sentiments mirror the collective appreciation of many young girls who now receive this indispensable support.
Mr James Mhilu, a respected program officer at the Ministry of Health, lauded Arjun as an exemplary figure for the nation's youth.
"At only 16, Arjun has made incredible contributions to the community.
Her project to empower girls and assist them in fulfilling their dreams is profoundly impactful, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds who frequently miss school due to a shortage of sanitary pads," Mhilu remarked.
He further highlighted that raising more than $60,000 for this initiative underscores Arjun's immense compassion and dedication.
Satbir Hanspaul, the Director of HansPaul, a leading vehicle assembly company in Arusha, expressed admiration for Arjun's bravery and commitment.
He stressed the critical role of this project in minimizing school absenteeism among girls, enhancing their self-esteem, and cultivating a sense of importance in the community.
Mr Sirili Ako, an esteemed expert in tourism and former CEO of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato), acknowledged Arjun's outstanding vision and influence.
He noted that many Tanzanian students face significant hurdles due to the lack of menstrual supplies, often resulting in school dropouts.
Mr Sirili conveyed his optimism that communities such as Hanang District in the Manyara Region will reap the benefits of this initiative, addressing reproductive health challenges and promoting ongoing education for girls.
Arjun Kaur Mittal's remarkable efforts prove that meaningful change is achievable at any age, providing an inspirational beacon for others to emulate.
