Deputy Minister Mhaule commends partners advancing menstrual dignity in South Africa
The Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, has commended the growing partnership between government, the private sector, civil society organisations and development partners in advancing menstrual health and hygiene management for learners across South Africa.
Speaking at the Menstrual Hygiene Gala Dinner held under the theme “Towards Period-Friendly Schools for a Period-Friendly World”, the Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of collective action in ensuring that no girl learner is denied her right to education, dignity and opportunity as a result of menstruation.
The event served as an opportunity to celebrate the significant contributions made by key partners, including the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), Premier FMCG, Lil-Lets, the Baithudi Mampane Foundation, UNICEF, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), provincial education departments, development partners and a range of civil society organisations that continue to support the Department of Basic Education’s efforts to improve access to menstrual hygiene products and services for learners.
“Achieving menstrual dignity is not a responsibility that government can fulfil alone. The progress we are witnessing today is a direct result of meaningful collaboration between government, business, civil society and development partners who have committed themselves to ensuring that every girl learner can attend school with confidence, dignity and pride,” said Deputy Minister Mhaule.
Through the Sanitary Dignity Programme and related interventions, these partnerships have helped expand access to menstrual hygiene products, support awareness and advocacy initiatives, reduce stigma, and create safer and more supportive learning environments for girls across the country.
The Deputy Minister further noted that the evening reflected a growing national commitment to addressing period poverty and ensuring that menstrual health remains firmly embedded within broader efforts to improve learner wellbeing, educational outcomes and gender equality. Acting Director – Communication and Research: Terence Khala – 081 758 1546 DBE Media Liaison Officer: Lukhanyo Vangqa 066 302 1533
“Menstrual dignity is fundamentally linked to educational access, learner wellbeing and gender equality. By working together, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also creating conditions that enable young women and girls to participate fully in education and realise their potential,” she said.
The Deputy Minister emphasised that the future of menstrual dignity in South Africa is increasingly promising as government continues to strengthen partnerships that support learner wellbeing.
“The future looks bright for this important government-led initiative. The strength of the partnerships that have been forged demonstrates what is possible when the public and private sectors work together in pursuit of a common goal. Together, we are moving closer to a South Africa where menstrual dignity is a lived reality for every girl learner,” said Deputy Minister Mhaule.
The Department of Basic Education remains encouraged by the momentum that has been built through these partnerships and is confident that continued collaboration will accelerate progress towards universal access to menstrual health and hygiene support in schools.
The Department extends its sincere appreciation to DBSA, Premier FMCG, Lil-Lets, the Baithudi Mampane Foundation, UNICEF, AHF, development partners, civil society organisations and all stakeholders who continue to champion menstrual dignity. Their collective efforts are helping to build a more inclusive, equitable and supportive education system for all learners.
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