Restore Dignity for 1,000 Girls in Ugandan schools

Introduction

PaCT continues to advance its commitment to improving school sanitation for rural learners, especially adolescent girls who experience significant barriers when sanitary facilities are unsafe, inadequate, or non-existent. Many girls still struggle with limited privacy, lack of menstrual hygiene support, and the embarrassment that comes with managing menstruation in schools that are not equipped to meet their needs. These gaps contribute to missed school days, reduced concentration, and in some cases, long-term dropout.

Our work this month focused on strengthening WASH infrastructure in ways that directly protect girls’ dignity, health, and learning continuity. By designing spaces that consider their safety and comfort, PaCT aims to reduce preventable inequalities and create learning environments where girls can fully participate without fear or shame.

Key Achievements

By end of November, active construction began on a new girls’ sanitation block at Nassanga Primary School. The foundation has been set and the structure is steadily progressing upward. This facility is being developed with special attention to girl-centered needs, and the contribution received through GlobalGiving has been allocated to the construction of the dedicated changing room inside the block.

This changing room is designed to address challenges that girls frequently face during menstruation. It will include running water, allowing for proper personal hygiene, cleaning reusable materials, and maintaining comfort during the school day. The room will also be fitted with shelves and storage spaces, enabling girls to safely keep menstrual items and change privately without fear of exposure or stigma. These features are essential for creating a supportive school environment where girls can attend class consistently and confidently.

The last constructed facilities at Nabukenya and Kassana Primary Schools, are already supporting hundreds of girls, demonstrates the importance of this work. Both sites have greatly improved the hygiene and comfort of learners. The difference these structures make in girls’ daily lives is already evident in increased confidence and reduced absenteeism.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Mityana Charity UK, whose partnership has for years enabled PaCT to address critical WASH needs in underserved schools. Their commitment continues to support rural children who would otherwise remain without essential sanitation infrastructure.

We also acknowledge the support provided through GlobalGiving, which has made it possible for the changing room at Nassanga Primary School to be planned and equipped in a way that reflects the realities girls face. Your contributions are helping create safe, dignified environments that directly influence girls’ educational journeys.

Funding Update

Out of the remaining balance needed, PaCT received $458.53 through GlobalGiving. This amount is being applied to the changing room works at Nassanga Primary School.

The remaining need now stands at $33,864 which will enable PaCT to replicate these improvements in additional schools that still lack girl-friendly sanitation options. The goal is to expand construction to more rural locations, adding latrines, inclusive handwashing stations, and menstrual hygiene management rooms that can support at least 1,000 learners across four schools.

PaCT remains committed to ensuring that no girl misses learning opportunities because of poor sanitation. With continued support, more schools will gain the dignified, private, and safe WASH facilities that every learner deserves.

Links:

• PaCT Website
• PaCT 30 Years documentary