A 16-YeAR-OLD pupil at north London Collegiate school in Dubai has raised 200m/- to provide free sanitary pads to schoolgirls in the northern Zone.

Recognising the pressing need for menstrual hygiene support among girls from underprivileged backgrounds, Arjun Kaur Mittal launched her initiative dubbed ‘needs Tanzania’.

The project aims to distribute menstrual health products to girls in rural areas, starting with Mkonoo secondary school in the remote Terrat ward in Arusha Region.

The initial distribution of sanitary pads to 400 girls at the school recently marked a turning point, enabling beneficiaries to attend classes with greater comfort and regularity during their menstrual cycles.
Mittal plans to raise an additional 700m/- annually to ensure sustainability of the initiative.

She emphasised the affordability of her programme, noting that providing sanitary pads for a year costs as much as a cup of coffee from a major chain. This practical approach highlights the long-term viability of the project.

The impact at Mkonoo secondary school has been profound. Girls who previously missed school due to their menstrual cycles now attend regularly, their confidence and comfort restored.
Both pupils and teachers acknowledge the positive changes brought by this support.

“Many of us come from needy families and menstrual health towels seemed like an impossible dream. we are deeply grateful for the support,” said Amina Mohamed, a Form Two pupil.
James Mhilu, a programme officer in the Ministry of Health, commended Mittal as a role model for young people.

“At just 16, she has accomplished remarkable things for the community.

Her initiative is particularly significant for girls from low-income families who often miss school due to lack of sanitary pads,” he said.

Sirili Ako, a seasoned tourism expert and former CEO of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), recognized Mittal’s vision and impact, noting that many Tanzanian pupils face challenges due to lack of menstrual products, often leading to truancy.

Ako expressed hope that similar initiatives will benefit other regions, addressing reproductive health issues and supporting continued education for girls.