The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), in collaboration with Rijiyar Zaki Youth Connect, has trained 40 girls from the Rijiyar Zaki community in Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State on menstrual hygiene management.
The training was organised to address challenges associated with menstruation, including stigma, embarrassment and school absenteeism among adolescent girls.
Speaking at the event, CITAD’s Senior Programmes Officer, Mr Isah Garba, said the training focused on the production of hygienic sanitary materials using sewing machines and locally sourced fabrics, as well as the proper use and maintenance of reusable sanitary pads.
“Meeting the hygiene needs of all adolescent girls is a fundamental issue of human rights, dignity and public health,” Garba said.
He added that the intervention was part of CITAD’s broader commitment to improving the wellbeing of girls and young women in underserved communities.
“This training is just the beginning. Together with our partners, CITAD aims to reach over 5,000 girls with similar interventions across Rijiyar Zaki communities,” he said.
On his part, the Director of Rijiyar Zaki Youth Connect, Malam Hassan Baraya, said the initiative was designed to create a multiplier effect through peer-to-peer learning.
According to him, the girls trained would step down the knowledge to other students from Rijiyar Zaki, Rimin Gata, Zakara, Dausayi and Dorayi Babba communities.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Pad Distribution Committee, Hajiya Fatima Zahra Kamshi, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.
She noted that access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products would help restore confidence among girls and reduce school absenteeism during menstruation.
Participants were also sensitised on menstrual health, personal hygiene and the importance of breaking cultural silence around menstruation.