On World Hygiene Day, Smile Culture Foundation carried our mission of “Humanity to Others” into the classroom — championing menstrual hygiene, dignity and the right of every girl to stay in school.
For many primary school girls in Ghana, period poverty is a silent barrier to education. Without access to sanitary pads, some miss days of school every month — falling behind and losing confidence. We set out to help change that, one school and one smile at a time.
Moments from the day
Free sanitary pads for schoolgirls
At the heart of the day was a free distribution of sanitary pads to primary school girls, alongside a friendly, honest conversation about menstrual health. Our goal was simple: to make sure no girl feels ashamed, unprepared, or forced to stay home because of her period.
A warm meal for every child
True to our roots in feeding the vulnerable, we also served food to the pupils. A full stomach and a caring word go a long way in helping children feel seen, valued and ready to learn.
Supported by our Member of Parliament
We were proud to welcome a representative of our area’s Member of Parliament (MP), who joined us to support the initiative. Their presence carried a powerful message — that the health, dignity and education of our girls is a shared responsibility for communities, leaders and organisations alike.
Why menstrual hygiene matters
Access to sanitary pads is not a luxury — it is a matter of dignity, health and opportunity. When girls are equipped and informed, they stay in school, perform better, and grow into confident young women who lift up their families and communities.
Every girl deserves to learn with dignity — free from shame and fear.
Watch: highlights from the day
Our chairman addresses the community about the initiative:
Thanksgiving and words of gratitude from the recipients:
Thank you — and what’s next
Our heartfelt thanks go to our volunteers, donors, partners and the office of our Member of Parliament for making this outreach possible. This is only the beginning — with your support, we plan to reach many more schools across Accra and beyond.
Want to help keep girls in school? Donate to fund the next sanitary pad drive, or partner with us to bring the programme to a school near you.
Smile Culture Foundation: Every Smile Counts.
