By Mian M Tahir Bashir
LORALAI: Shedding light on the imperative issue of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), Deputy Commissioner of Loralai, Sajjad Aslam, expressed the pressing need to prioritize the well-being of women and girls.
He shared his views as a chief guest at the groundbreaking media workshop on ‘Communicating Menstrual Hygiene Management,’ held here as a collaborative effort spearheaded by The MHMWG Secretariat, Balochistan, in partnership with UNICEF Pakistan’s education programme.
While representing the district government, Mr Aslam shared unwavering commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at cultivating awareness about MHM and its importance within our society.
Dr. Tahira Kamal Baloch, Chairperson of the Menstrual Hygiene Management Working Group (MHMWG) Balochistan, the occasion, underscored the profound link between advancing MHM and education. She commended the UNICEF for its commendable initiative to join forces with MHMWG for media engagement on MHM, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 6.2 (Clean Water and Sanitation). This strategic alliance seeks to leverage local and national media to establish a platform for constructive dialogue on MHM, aiming to contribute significantly to societal development.
Recognizing MHM as a pivotal subject crucial for enhancing the overall health and hygiene of women and girls, she emphasized on the need of a collective resolve to promote MHM to empower them to realize their fullest potential across all fields.
Mr. Shafqat Aziz, a seasoned communication specialist and trainer, shared critical insights into the MHM landscape in Pakistan during the workshop. Underlining the pivotal role of media in shaping societal awareness and influencing policies, he stressed the importance of advocating for MHM-friendly schools, educational reforms, and tax initiatives to improve access to MHM products. Mr. Aziz also informed participants about a policy brief on MHM prepared by UNICEF Pakistan.
Mr Rashid Abbas, and Ms Robina Hameed while representing UNICEF’s education programme, underscored the significance of collaborative endeavors, especially involving the media, to champion MHM rights. She highlighted the instrumental role of UNICEF’s education programme in promoting girls’ education in Balochistan, emphasizing that MHM advocacy is integral to encouraging girls to attend schools.
Ms. Shahana Tabbasum from MHMWG, Balochistan offered invaluable insights earlier into MHM, emphasizing its role in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. Underscoring the media’s crucial role as a stakeholder in fostering healthy debates on critical social issues, he affirmed its vital contribution to our collective social development.
Other speakers, from diverse backgrounds stressed the need for increased stakeholder involvement in actively contributing to the cause. The MHMWG Secretariat, Balochistan, UNICEF, and all participants remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing MHM advocacy, tirelessly working towards creating a more equitable and supportive environment for women and girls in Balochistan and beyond.
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