EACOP, Malaika reusable sanitary pads partner to combat school dropout in Bunyoro

Hoima: In response to the alarming 73% dropout rate among students in the Bunyoro region, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) and Malaika Reusable Sanitary Pads have partnered to provide dignity hampers to students at Kabaale Public Primary School.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Dan Busobozi, Headteacher of Kabaale Public Primary School, revealed that the school has an enrollment of 1,472 learners, comprising 705 girls and 767 boys.

“Our school has a high enrollment and one of the lowest dropout rates in the region. We appreciate EACOP’s support, and I am confident they will never regret investing in such a school,” Busobozi stated.

Dorothy Awori, Team Leader at Malaika Reusable Sanitary Pads, explained that the Dignity Hamper Project will be implemented across five districts of Hoima, Mubende, Kakumiro, Kikuube and Kyankwanzi.

The project will support 20 schools, with Kabaale Public Primary School serving as the pilot school. As part of the initiative, students will also receive training on how to make reusable sanitary pads for sustainability.

“Each dignity hamper contains reusable sanitary pads, underwear, and buckets. The donation aims to support vulnerable girls and enable them to stay in school with dignity,” Awori noted.

During the event, John Ayesiza, Kabaale Sub-county Speaker, highlighted a critical water shortage affecting students.

“Learners walk three kilometers daily to fetch water, which disrupts their studies. We request EACOP to donate a water harvesting tank to solve this problem,” Ayesiza appealed.

Harriet Kihumuro, Hoima District Education Officer, attributed the high dropout rate (73%) to parental neglect, with the retention rate at only 27%.

“Many parents have abandoned their responsibilities, leaving their children to struggle. Parents must play a more active role in ensuring their children remain in school,” Kihumuro emphasized.

Matrid Murungi, Manager of Corporate Social Investment at EACOP, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to community health and girls’ education.

“Among our many initiatives, supporting girls’ education is a priority. Our partnership with Malaika Reusable Sanitary Pads ensures that more girls stay in school and complete their education,” Murungi stated.

Murungi further emphasized that reducing school dropout rates requires collective efforts from parents, educators, and community leaders.

Shafiq Ntuyo, Assistant RDC of Hoima District, stressed that menstrual health and hygiene is not just a women’s issue but a community and national concern.

“Menstruation continues to affect girls’ academic performance, leading to high dropout rates. Providing dignity hampers to young girls is a significant step toward solving this issue,” Ntuyo noted.

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