Every month, 1.8 billion people across the world menstruate. Millions of these girls, women and other people are unable to manage their menstrual cycle in a dignified, healthy way.
The onset of menstruation means a new phase – and new vulnerabilities – in the lives of adolescents. Yet, many adolescent girls face stigma, harassment and social exclusion during menstruation.
Gender inequality, discriminatory social norms, cultural taboos, poverty and lack of basic services like toilets and sanitary products can all cause menstrual health and hygiene needs to go unmet.
Menstrual health and hygiene interventions can help overcome these obstacles. Not only do they fulfill the unmet demand for menstrual hygiene products; but they also protect the dignity, build confidence, and strengthen sexual and reproductive health, particularly among adolescents.
At GIST, we have goals to make sure that menstruation hygiene products are free and accessible for everyone, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. With the use of advanced technology and science, GIST in ten years hopes that the stigmatization surrounding menstruation and periods will be reduced in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in rural communities.
Girls in Science and Technology also purpose to raise female activists that will break the stereotype and waves and positive changes in their respective communities.
They are happy about the innovation
I am a benefector of this innovation. Due to GIST's sanitary dispenser I have not been caught unaware anywhere
Joyce, 21StudentWorking with GIST on this project has immensely helped my progress in activism. I look forward to always raising awareness about sanitary hygiene.
Gloria, 18Project AssistantGIST is a safe place for me to speak about various issues including breaking stereotypes on periods. I am really grateful for that.
Oyin, 16Student