education 4 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Uganda Government Commits to Free Sanitary Pads and Better WASH Facilities to Boost Girls' Education

The Ugandan government has pledged to provide free sanitary pads and enhance Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools. This initiative aims to address challenges that contribute to girls dropping out of school, particularly during menstruation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-pledges-free-sanitary-pads-improved-wash-facilities-to-keep-girls-in-school-5547174

The government of Uganda is taking steps to ensure that menstrual hygiene does not impede girls’ education. A commitment has been made to provide free sanitary pads to students across the nation, a move expected to significantly reduce absenteeism and dropout rates.

This pledge is part of a broader strategy to improve Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in educational institutions. The Ministry of Education and Sports recognizes that inadequate WASH infrastructure, coupled with the cost and accessibility of sanitary products, forces many girls to miss school or abandon their studies altogether.

“We are here to be your voice. Your issues, concerns, and advocacy will be addressed,” stated officials, emphasizing the government’s dedication to tackling these critical barriers. The initiative aims to create a more conducive learning environment where girls can attend school consistently throughout the month, without the fear of stigma or discomfort associated with menstruation.

By ensuring access to both sanitary pads and improved sanitation facilities, the government hopes to foster greater gender equity in education. This program is anticipated to not only keep girls in school but also contribute to their overall well-being and academic success. The specific rollout plan and funding mechanisms are expected to be detailed in the coming months, with stakeholders eager to see the tangible impact of these commitments.

The focus on menstrual hygiene management is a crucial step towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Ensuring that no girl is left behind due to biological needs is a core objective of this government policy.