Chandigarh, May 28: The Punjab government has initiated a menstrual health education program for female students in government schools. On Thursday, coinciding with ‘Menstrual Hygiene Day,’ the government announced the implementation of a ‘Menstrual Hygiene Curriculum’ in all government high and senior secondary schools across the state’s 23 districts.
According to officials, the first session of this initiative will commence on Friday. The program aims to directly benefit approximately 340,000 female students in grades 6 to 10 across more than 3,600 government schools.
The Punjab government states that this initiative seeks to create a modern and inclusive educational framework where girls can gain awareness, confidence, respect, and accurate health information.
This campaign aims to address an issue that has long been surrounded by silence, hesitation, misconceptions, and social stigma in society. Officials emphasize the importance of ensuring that menstruation does not hinder girls’ education, confidence, school participation, or their mental and physical health.
This program is also seen as aligning with the sentiments expressed by the Supreme Court, which highlighted that menstrual health and hygiene are directly related to the dignity, education, and equality of adolescent girls.
The initiative has been launched in collaboration with an international non-profit organization focused on menstrual health and awareness. A special curriculum has been developed in Punjabi to facilitate easy understanding and engagement with the subject.
Classes will utilize an interactive storytelling approach featuring a 10-year-old character named ‘Ruby.’ Group discussions and activities will make the learning process enjoyable, safe, and engaging.
These sessions will cover topics such as menstruation, bodily changes, hygiene, self-care, confidence, and fostering a positive school environment.
To ensure the program’s success, the Punjab government has already trained around 7,200 teachers to deliver this education with sensitivity and confidence.
The entire initiative will be conducted under a three-phase model, providing age-appropriate and story-based menstrual health education.
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