In honor of the International Day of Persons with Disability (PWD), the Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD) Ghana has inaugurated a ‘Pad Bank' at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind (Wa Blind).
The initiative aims to address the menstrual hygiene needs of female pupils by providing them with sanitary pads.
Ms. Ernestina Biney, Acting Executive Director of CARD Ghana, emphasized the significance of the ‘Pad Bank' in supporting the girls' menstrual hygiene. She highlighted its role in promoting menstrual health, addressing period poverty, and empowering individuals.
“Sanitary pad banks are crucial in ensuring that everyone has access to the menstrual products they need for a healthy and dignified period experience,” stated Ms. Biney during the facility's opening ceremony.
To sustain the ‘Pad Bank,' Ms. Biney called on the public to contribute by regularly donating sanitary pads. She commended the Upper West Regional Director of the Department of Gender for pledging monthly contributions to the initiative.
Ms. Biney urged the school management to ensure proper utilization of the facility, suggesting the appointment of a dedicated student or staff member to manage the ‘Pad Bank.'
On the occasion of Disability Day, Ms. Biney emphasized the importance of standing in solidarity with PWDs, recognizing their strength, resilience, and contributions to society. She called for advocacy for inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all, emphasizing that “disability does not define a person's worth.”
Madam Anna Nabere, She Leads Project Manager at Plan International Ghana, emphasized the need to recognize and value the unique contributions of PWDs for a more just and compassionate world. She encouraged the amplification of PWDs' voices and the breaking of barriers hindering their full participation in all aspects of life.
Expressing gratitude, students of the Wa Blind thanked CARD Ghana for the timely intervention. Ms. Elizabeth Akuzoba, Senior Girls Prefect, highlighted the financial challenges students face in affording sanitary pads, noting the positive impact the ‘Pad Bank' would have on their lives.
In a communiqué, the girls called on stakeholders to establish a supportive social system for PWDs, fostering an inclusive and equitable society. Miss Memuna Ahmed, Assistant Library Prefect, stressed the need to address societal barriers against PWDs for their enhanced development.
The event, attended by representatives from the Department of Gender, Bahas Foundation, and activists from CARD Ghana, is part of the implementation of the She Leads project.