In a recent engagement with the pupils of Gwendiya Primary School, our Social Labs’ Team Gwendiya in Gulu district, Northern Uganda has shed light on the pressing issue of parental neglect and its adverse effects on the education of young girls. The team’s visit provided a platform for these students to express their concerns, revealing a troubling reality that some parents resort to using vulgar language and neglecting their children, ultimately impeding their academic progress.
The insightful discussion with the students underscored that the harsh treatment and verbal abuse from parents often led these girls to seek solace outside their homes, gravitating towards negative peer influences and eventually dropping out of school.
Furthermore, the team discovered another distressing challenge faced by female students – the shame associated with menstruation. Girls admitted to discontinuing their studies during their menstrual cycles due to the lack of proper hygiene facilities and the prevailing stigma surrounding this natural process. To address this issue and provide support, the team initiated the “Menstruation Hygiene Management Club” specifically tailored for all girls in Gwendiya Primary School.
The pupils of Gwendiya Primary School have bravely shared their experiences, shedding light on the alarming prevalence of parental neglect and the challenges faced by girls during menstruation. The efforts made by Team Gwendiya in addressing these issues demonstrate a commitment to empowering young girls and ensuring equal opportunities for education. It is hoped that this awareness will pave the way for positive change in both the home and school environments, promoting the overall well-being and academic success of these students.
Project RESILIENT is being carried out by Makerere University, Uganda in partnership with University of Rwanda, Institute of Social Work, Tanzania and University of Agder, Norway and is funded by @Norad.