In commemoration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026, DeCODE (Development Centre for Orientation, Discovery & Empowerment), in partnership with Preserved Childhood Foundation and Pink Health Foundation, successfully organized a high-impact menstrual hygiene awareness event aimed at promoting menstrual health education, dignity, confidence, and safe spaces for girls.
The event brought together students, educators, health professionals, advocates, community leaders, and stakeholders to engage in important conversations around menstruation, menstrual hygiene management, puberty education, body safety, myths and harmful cultural practices surrounding menstruation.
The program emphasized that menstruation should never be a source of shame, stigma, or exclusion for girls.
Participants were educated on:
• Menstrual hygiene and proper menstrual care
• Understanding the menstrual cycle
• Period tracking and preparedness
• Myths and harmful practices surrounding menstruation
• The importance of WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) facilities in schools
• The role of parents, teachers, communities, and policymakers in promoting menstrual awareness and supporting girls
One of the major highlights of the event was a touching mime performance by students from the School for the Deaf, reinforcing the message that no girl should be excluded from menstrual health conversations regardless of disability or background.
Another engaging session was a debate by students from different schools on the topic:
“Should Menstruation Be Discussed Openly or Not?”
While the opposing side focused on issues of culture, privacy, shyness, and discomfort in coeducational settings, the proposing side strongly argued that menstruation is a natural biological process that should not be hidden or treated as shameful. They emphasized that open conversations and the inclusion of boys and men in menstrual health discussions are necessary to reduce stigma, shame, and misinformation.
The event also featured the introduction of PeriodReal, a digital menstrual health platform designed to provide girls with access to accurate menstrual health information, support, and safe learning resources.
Special Guest, Hon. Mimi Okpeazu, Member representing Onitsha Constituency 1, spoke extensively to the girls on menstruation, body safety, confidence, career growth, and personal development, encouraging them not to allow menstruation or societal limitations hinder their dreams and aspirations.
A panel session featuring experienced women professionals also inspired participants as speakers shared their journeys, challenges, career experiences, and lessons on balancing career, family, and personal growth.
Speaking during the event, the organizers reiterated the need for increased investment in menstrual health education, access to sanitary products, and the provision of safe WASH facilities in schools and communities.
The organizations appreciated the support of sponsors, volunteers, speakers, partners, and advocates who contributed to the success of the program, including Oma Sweetheart on Radio, Dr. Ofeoma Imeh, Dr. Ngozi Aghadiuno, and many others.
Through this campaign, DeCODE, Preserved Childhood Foundation, and Pink Health Foundation continue to align with the global Menstrual Hygiene movement by localizing global concerns and advocating for a future where every girl can manage menstruation safely, confidently, and with dignity.
Together, we can build a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.
For Media Enquiries:
Cynthia Enweonwu-Arinze
Phone: 08038849601
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