No Girl Left Behind: African Child at Work NPO Tackles Period Poverty in Orlando West Schools.
Thabo Motlhabi
African Child at Work NPO recently hosted a Menstrual Hygiene Education program at two schools in Orlando West and Soweto. Schools: Shomang Primary School and Emdlaleni High School. Held at the school’s halls on Friday, 18 September 2026. The program focused on educating young girls about menstrual health and hygiene, addressing period poverty, and breaking the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.
“Menstruation is not a choice: it’s a natural and important part of women’s health.”
The initiative brought together stakeholders committed to improving the lives, dignity, and well-being of young girls.
* Standard Bank Maponya/Barack
* Funding
* 100 Percent Foundation
The campaign aimed to equip learners with practical knowledge about menstrual health, including how to use sanitary pads correctly and how to dispose of used pads safely, and the importance of maintaining good personal hygiene during menstruation.
It also created an opportunity to openly discuss period-poverty challenges that can prevent young girls from fully participating in school and community life. when they do not have access to adequate menstrual towels.
As part of the initiative, learners were encouraged to speak up when they needed sanitary products and to seek support without shame or embarrassment. The program emphasized that period poverty is not only an individual challenge but also a community responsibility.
Speaking about the initiative, African Child at Work founder Thabo Masigo highlighted the importance of collaboration between organizations and stakeholders in supporting young girls and working towards ending period poverty:
“Together, we are building a period-positive workplace and community aligning with the global movement of the menstrual hygiene day. African Child at Work exists to ensure dignity and opportunity for every young girl. By tackling period poverty head-on, we are breaking barriers to education and nurturing a future where no child is left behind.”
The pads drive sought to restore and empower young girls to take control of their health and hygiene and to build confidence through education and access to menstrual products.
The key message throughout the campaign was that “No Child” should have to miss school because they cannot afford or access sanitary pads.
African Child at Work NPO believes that through continued collaboration, education, and community support, young girls can be empowered to manage their periods with confidence and remain fully engaged in their education.
At the conclusion of the campaign, representatives distributed goodies bags containing sanitary towels to young girls at both schools in Orlando West, providing immediate support while reinforcing the broader message of dignity, education, and empowerment.