AGAHE-Pakistan

Adequate management of menstrual hygiene has been a significant problem for girls and women in South Asia as the normal biological process is profoundly steeped in silence, myths, and taboos and even widely stigmatized. Menstruation has always remained a hushed-up issue in the region due to lack of awareness, and discriminatory cultural norms or practices. Water Aid, through local partners, initiated the implementation of MHM in Pakistan and continue to involve all relevant stakeholders at Punjab and at national levels. In August 2017, a provincial working group was formed, led by WDD and supported by AGAHE/Water Aid, to integrate MHM in departmental and organizational policies and plans. The working group consists of 20 representatives from government departments including education, health, women development, planning & development, public health engineering, National and International NGOs, UN and academia. The group had met twice since its inception and was able to spread the messages to the larger audience within and outside their organizations and departments, through the celebration of MHM day, conferences and discussions.

For the group to work more effectively and efficiently with collective approach, it was time to equip them with strategic plan that can be monitored reviewed and adjusted as required. Mera Maan was involved in designing a workshop for AGAHE and Women Development Department Punjab, where 20 members from government departments attended. The workshop methodology included plenary sessions, presentations, discussions and group works.