 | For many students, access to education is shaped by more than what happens in the classroom. Sometimes, it comes down to something as simple, and as essential, as access to basic hygiene. Recognizing this, the Rotaract Club of Paramaribo set out to make a meaningful difference in schools across Suriname through a project focused on menstrual health, awareness, and accessibility. |
Rotaract Club of Paramaribo takes action on menstrual health and youth education
The initiative began with conversation. Rotaract members visited schools and engaged directly with students through interactive sessions that covered topics often left undiscussed, including sexual health, disaster and risk management, and the importance of physical health. These sessions created a safe and open environment where students felt seen, heard, and informed.
But awareness alone was not enough. As conversations deepened, a clear need emerged. Many students still faced challenges when it came to accessing sanitary products during school hours. That insight shaped the next step.
Working closely with school representatives and partners, the team coordinated the donation and installation of pad dispensers within school facilities. From sourcing materials to aligning with school leadership and managing logistics, the process required careful planning and collaboration. Each step was guided by one goal, to ensure that students would have reliable and discreet access to the resources they need.
Despite challenges along the way, including coordinating schedules and ensuring proper placement within each school, the team remained focused. What could have been obstacles became moments of alignment, reinforcing the shared commitment between Rotaract members and the schools they served.
Today, those dispensers represent more than just access. They stand for dignity, confidence, and continuity in education. Students are better able to focus, participate, and show up fully, knowing their needs are acknowledged and supported.
This initiative reflects the strength of community-driven action. By combining education with practical solutions, the Rotaract Club of Paramaribo continues to create spaces where young people can thrive, both inside and outside the classroom.
Below you will find the pictures that highlight these projects:
Picture 1: Donating the pads + pad dispensers to a local middle school
Picture 2:
Picture of the pads + pad dispenser
Picture 3:
Group photo with the National Coordination Center for Disaster Management. This was taken after the session
Picture 4: Another donation of a pad dispenser with pads
Picture 5:
A collection of the pads that were donated to the schools
A collection of the pads that were donated to the schools
