JCI Dhaka Sparks launches KushumKotha: Breaking Out of Period Poverty (Phase-2)

JCI Dhaka Sparks completed first intervention of phase 2 of social awareness project- "KushumKotha:  Breaking Out of Period Poverty” with the theme of "Know the correct information, Break prejudice" at Nayatola A U N Model Kamil Madrasah in collaboration with Senora Confidence and JCI Uptown targeting over 60 girls and educating them on menstrual hygiene and appropriate sanitation. The intervention also discussed with the authorities and management at the madrasah to roll out sustainable hygiene solutions moving away from unsanitary practices.

Local President Noor E Alam Bhuiyan presided over the first intervention and coordinated by Fazana Sultana Mow, CoC of the Project and Sigma Haider, Director in Charge and Executive Vice President of JCI Dhaka Sparks also facilitated the arrangements. 

As special guests, Shamima Sultana, SBCC Expert who has worked with different UN agencies & INGOs and made valuable remarks. As a guest speaker, Dr. Rubiya Rahim Resident Specialized Medical Officer (Gynae &obstetrics) Evercare Hospital, Nibraj Zahan Huzaira Counseling Psychologist Taqwa Specialized Hospital was present there and assured of their commitment to the cause of the project.

In our society, many adolescent girls face taboos, harassment, and social exclusion during menstruation. Despite several initiatives “Low-quality sanitary materials, the social culture related to menstruation hygiene management, inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (wash) facilities, lack of guidance and privacy for changing and washing at school or home are common issues related to inadequate menstrual hygiene practices.” Engagement and linkage with the business industries involved in the production of hygiene products are also absent. 
From the beginning one of the major concerns of JCI Dhaka Sparks is to provide a sustainable menstrual hygiene and awareness program to these underprivileged adolescent girls.

Recognizing the social taboo and the limitations prevalent today despite consistent efforts in the past two decades, JCI Dhaka Sparks through its project KushumKotha for the next two years will address the challenges of period poverty through strategic interventions and appropriate collaborations to include underdeveloped rural communities, orphanages, madrasas, and ethnic minorities in areas of influence.