Girls’ corner initiative being replicated across Mongolia

While menstrual pads are available to purchase in Mongolia, access to them can be challenging, especially in rural areas. Many schoolgirls struggle when they experience a sudden period while at school because sanitary pads are not available, and the WASH facilities are of low quality. According to the WHO/UNICEF JMP database, 24% of rural schools in Mongolia do not have proper sanitation and hygiene facilities. This issue is not just about access to sanitary products, but also about ensuring dignity and comfort for girls during a natural biological process.

Imagine being a young girl, trying to focus on your studies, but instead, you’re worried about a stain on your pants. For example, Ganchimeg. Sh, a 17 year old girl from Zavkhan province said once she got her period unexpectedly while she was at school. She didn’t have any sanitary pads, and to her horror, the blood seeped through her pants. Embarrassed and desperate, she had to cover her bottoms with her sweater.

This is the harsh reality for many girls that emphasizes the importance of not just having access to sanitary pads, but also the ability to manage periods with dignity and without fear. It’s a call to action for improved menstrual hygiene management in schools across the country.

Recognizing the struggles of many girls like Ganchimeg. Sh, UNICEF Mongolia has stepped in to make a difference and bring change. We have pioneered the Girls’ Corner initiative in schools and dormitories across the country. This innovative program does more than just provide emergency access to sanitary pads. It also disseminates crucial information about the menstrual cycle, health, and hygiene, empowering girls with the knowledge they need to manage their periods confidently and comfortably. 

This compact box is filled with 224 pieces of  sanitary pads, day, and night type. But it is more than just a supply of pads, there is also a board in the girls’ toilets with important information about menstruation, health, and cleanliness.

With UNICEF’s continuous support, the Girls’ Corner has been established in 138 dormitories and 12 schools across the country. This initiative has already made a substantial difference, preserving the dignity of  nearly 11,150 girls from grades between 6 to 12 girls and equipping them with the necessary resources to manage their menstruation effectively.

To expand this successful initiative, UNICEF and the Ministry of Education and Science has formed strategic partnerships with private sector companies such as Jagar International Co. Ltd, Barloworld Mongolia LLC, and the Mongolian Women’s Federation. In 2024 alone, these collaborations have facilitated the installation of menstrual health hygiene corners in 50 schools, with scaling up plan nationwide. The success of the initiative has ignited interest among more companies and non-governmental organizations, who are interested  to contribute to its further expansion and ensure improved access for girls at all times.

Proper menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is crucial for women and girls as they navigate their monthly cycles. It signifies a promising future where educational institutions acknowledge and prioritize female health. Enhanced awareness and understanding about menstruation will inevitably lead to correct practices, resulting in improved health due to proper hygiene.