SOCCER KITS TO PROMOTE MENSTRUAL AWARENESS

Sometimes, the easiest way to start difficult conversations is to begin with something young people already love. At Adaklu Tsriefe Basic School, soccer became that entry point, bringing students together not just to play but to talk, learn, and understand each other better.

A total of 36 students (17 boys and 19 girls) gathered on the school field for an activity that blended sports with open discussion on menstrual hygiene. The atmosphere was lively and relaxed, making it easier for students to engage in a topic that is often treated with silence or discomfort.

Leading the session was Roberta Donkor, Manageress of Volta Pad, who spoke openly with the students about menstrual hygiene and the importance of personal cleanliness during menstruation. She encouraged the girls to feel confident and unashamed of their bodies, while also calling on the boys to be supportive and informed. Her message was clear that menstruation is a natural part of life, and understanding it is everyone’s responsibility.

The discussion also touched on teenage pregnancy, with honest conversations about how it can interrupt education and limit opportunities for both girls and boys. Students listened, asked questions, and shared thoughts in a space that felt safe and inclusive.

After the discussion, the energy shifted back to the field as students formed teams and played soccer together. What stood out was not just the game itself but the ease and unity among the student boys and girls interacting freely, with a better sense of respect and awareness.

This approach proved effective in breaking down barriers. By starting with soccer, the activity created a natural pathway into conversations that might otherwise feel uncomfortable. It also ensured that boys were not left out of discussions around menstruation, helping to build empathy and shared understanding.

However, the activity also highlighted a need. As this is a new initiative, the students currently lack basic soccer kits such as jerseys, cones and socks. Their enthusiasm for the game was clear, and they expressed strong interest in having these items to support future activities. There is the need for snacks to keep them refreshed after the games.

Overall, the session demonstrated that meaningful education does not always have to happen in a classroom setting. Sometimes, it starts on a football field with a ball, a conversation, and a willingness to learn from one another.