Ghanaian students commend government for free sanitary pads initiative

Ghanaian students have commended the government for introducing free sanitary pads for schoolgirls across the country, describing the policy as a major intervention that is helping girls remain in school during their menstrual periods.

The commendation was delivered in a collective message to John Dramani Mahama during the 2026 President’s Independence Day Awards ceremony held in Accra.

“We applaud you for understanding the challenges young girls face during menstruation and for graciously giving free sanitary pads to support them,” the students said.

The message, presented in English and four local languages, highlighted the free sanitary pad initiative as one of the most impactful policies currently benefiting young girls in schools across the country.

A total of 52 students were honoured at the ceremony for their outstanding performance in the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

The awardees were selected from all 16 regions of the country and included students with special educational needs.

Established in 1993, the President’s Independence Day Awards recognise exceptional students aged between 14 and 19, while encouraging academic excellence among young learners.

The students said the free sanitary pad programme had helped reduce the burden on families and ensured that menstruation no longer disrupted the education of many girls.

They explained that the intervention had enabled several girls to attend school with confidence and dignity throughout the month without missing lessons.

Beyond the sanitary pad programme, the students also acknowledged other government investments in education, particularly the recognition of academic excellence through the awards scheme.

They noted that such initiatives encouraged them to work harder in their studies, believe in their potential and prepare themselves to contribute meaningfully to national development.

The students further welcomed the emphasis on local language instruction at the foundational level, describing it as a policy that would improve comprehension and learning outcomes among younger pupils.

“As young citizens and future leaders of Ghana, we are committed to discipline, hard work, patriotism, and excellence,” they assured President John Dramani Mahama.

They expressed gratitude to the President for investing in their future and voiced optimism about the country’s progress.