15 October 2023

In South Africa and globally, young girls often face formidable obstacles that impede their educational pursuits, particularly during their menstrual cycles. A prominent challenge they encounter is the unavailability of sanitary towels, as many are unable to afford these essential products due to financial constraints, consequently compromising their educational opportunities.

Recognizing the dire need, the Vaal University of Technology’s Zion Christian Church Student Fellowship (VUT ZCCSF) initiated the Sanitary Towel Donation Project in 2018. This ongoing initiative aims to collect and distribute sanitary towels to young girls in need, thereby eliminating the barriers that deter them from attending school during their periods.

On 20 October 2023, the organisation undertook a significant step in this mission by visiting  Lebogang Secondary School in Boipatong, a local neighbourhood where they generously donated approximately 600 packs of sanitary pads. These provisions are meant to cater to all female learners from Grade 8 to 12 in the school, ensuring that they can manage their periods with dignity. In addition, the organization also supplied boxes of pens for male learners, emphasizing their commitment to fostering education for all.

The success of this commendable endeavor can be attributed to the unwavering dedication of the organization’s 2023 leadership team that played pivotal roles in both the event’s success . Additionally, they shared valuable insights about menstruation with the female learners.

Moreover, the leadership team was accompanied by alumni Ms. Vhahangwele Sigonde and several ZCCSF members who worked tirelessly to ensure the project’s success. On the day, the team also educational sessions that provided valuable information about the menstrual cycle and emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene. These sessions were met with profound admiration from the learners, who left feeling inspired and empowered to overcome the challenges they face during their periods.

The VUT ZCCSF team received a warm welcome by the school – a gesture which underscored the significance of the initiative and demonstrated the collective commitment to its success. The school principal, Mr. Patrick Kgalapa and his deputy Mr. Masilo Makhesha, expressed their deep appreciation for the generous donation which they said will benefit their learners in an unimaginable way.

Furthermore, Mr.Kgosi Mafojane, a committee member expressed his gratitude to the VUT ZCCSF team for their dedication on behalf of the school and residents Boipatong.

The vision of the VUT ZCCSF organization extends far beyond a single school. Over the next five years, they aim to expand their reach and impact by donating sanitary towels to multiple schools within the community. Their ultimate goal is to support even more girls in their educational journey, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and inequality.

At the core of this initiative is the belief that every girl deserves equal access to education, regardless of her menstrual cycle. Through collective efforts and community support, the organisation strives to create a society where no girl is left behind due to the lack of sanitary towels, and where every girl can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

The VUTZCCSF team extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone, including ZCCSF members and alumni, for contributing to the success of this life-changing initiative. “Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of young stars, giving hope and opportunities to girls who deserve nothing less.”