By Stephen G. Fellajuah
The Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF) has begun distributing sanitary pads to girls in Monrovia and surrounding areas in Montserrado County, an initiative aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene and support girls’ education by ensuring they have access to essential sanitary products.
Beneficiaries of the distribution include students from JJ Roberts UMS High School, Muslim Congress High School, and other schools in Todee and District #1, Montserrado County.
Thie initiative which seeks to support girls’ health and educational participation in the region
began October 9 at JJ Roberts UMS High School and continued to Muslim Congress High School before extending to Todee District.
According to a JSF release, the exercise is promoting efforts to ensure that more girls have access to essential sanitary products. This initiative is crucial for supporting their health and educational engagement.
Speaking at a program on October 10, 2024, at Muslim Congress High School in Monrovia, Executive Director Ms. Nowai Dunbar introduced the JSF sexual education manual.
She emphasized that the initiative focuses on providing comprehensive sexual education, which is complemented by the distribution of sanitary pads to female participants. This dual approach aims to empower students with knowledge and essential resources.
“We let them know that the menstrual cycle is a part of womanhood,” Ms. Dunbar stated, encouraging girls not to stay home during their periods.
She also urged boys to respect their female peers, warning to do so “because, if a female’s period does not come, she is not going to have children.”
As part of her message, Ms. Dunbar cautioned boys against inappropriate touching of girls. She mentioned that educational materials are being prepared for distribution to schools, targeting three institutions initially.
Ms. Dunbar further suggested that sanitary pads should be made available at all times in schools. She called on the general public, particularly parents and guardians, to educate girls about self-respect and to encourage boys to show respect toward their female peers. This comprehensive approach aims to foster a supportive and respectful environment for all students.
On behalf of Muslim Congress High School, Registrar Juah T. Kiadii expressed gratitude to JSF for its significant support of girls over the years.
She encouraged students to embrace the teachings provided to enhance their self-esteem and promote a decent living.
In commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Child, the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF), in collaboration with UNFPA and other partners, launched a comprehensive sexual education manual aimed at empowering girls. This initiative provided essential information on health, rights, and personal safety, fostering informed decision-making and promoting gender equality.
The event themed “Girls’ Vision For The Future” took place at JJ Roberts UMS High School in Monrovia, bringing together students, educators, and guests from the Jewel Starfish Foundation. The gathering featured inspiring performances and discussions focused on empowering young girls and envisioning a brighter future.
This week, the Jewel Starfish Foundation (JSF) launched a series of activities to celebrate its 25th anniversary and the International Day of the Child, including a relaunch of the foundation itself. This revitalization aims to strengthen its commitment to supporting underserved youth through educational resources, mentorship, and skills training.
JSF plans to host various events and outreach programs to engage local youth and their families, seeking collaborations with schools, community leaders, and volunteers to enhance its initiatives. The relaunch follows the tenure of Madam Howard-Taylor as Vice President and aligns with the International Day of the Girl Child, reflecting the foundation’s mission to empower young girls and promote gender equality.
A key highlight of the relaunch week was the unveiling of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Manual, which was originally printed for Madam Howard-Taylor during her vice presidency. Launched on October 9, 2024, at JJ Roberts UMS High School in Monrovia, the manual serves as a vital resource for teachers, focusing on health and critical issues affecting women and girls.
On October 10, JSF hosted two significant events, including a collaboration with Muslim Congress to foster dialogue on women’s issues. The day concluded with a community event in Todee, Montserrado County, aimed at engaging residents and promoting the foundation’s mission.
On October 11, the JSF girls’ team will participate in the International Day of the Girl Child, focusing on raising awareness about the rights and challenges faced by girls globally.
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