MOINHAPPA, 28 Aug: To commemorate the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science & Technology (APSCS&T) organised a workshop titled 'Empowering Adolescent Girls through Science & Technology-Driven Menstrual Hygiene Management' at Calvary English School here in Papum Pare district on Friday.
The initiative combined biological education, open dialogue, and concrete infrastructure deployment to break taboos and promote health dignity among young girls.
Addressing the participants, APSCS&T Deputy Director Dr Pakgnu Lombi highlighted the vital role of technology in personal health awareness. Following this, Education Officer Gem Peri delivered an in-depth session on the biology of menstruation, guiding students through menarche, ovulation, cycle stages, and critical hygiene practices. To reinforce these concepts, a visual animation was screened, debunking common myths and explaining the underlying science behind the menstrual cycle.
SC-C Yumbi Bijum Yomgam presented a comprehensive brief on the history and global significance of the Menstrual Hygiene Day. She outlined the APSCS&T's school-based intervention model, highlighting three core physical deliverables handed over to the school: a sanitary napkin vending machine, a sanitary napkin incinerator, and multi-sized sanitary napkins.
'Dignity kits' were also distributed to students, containing multi-sized sanitary napkins, hand towels, inner wear, and hand soap to promote confidence and personal preparedness.
Closing her address, Yomgam led a pledge to transform period awareness: "To replace myths with facts, silence with conversation, embarrassment with confidence, and inconvenience with practical solutions."
The workshop transitioned into hands-on practical training, during which Yomgam conducted operational and refilling demonstrations of both the vending machine and incinerator for the students and staff, accompanied by mentor Tana Tuna and nurse Kolie Yama.
The event concluded with the official hand-over of equipment and dignity kits.
The school's Vice Principal Likha Kaku lauded the APSCS&T for bringing essential practical solutions and scientific clarity to their students.
The school's Principal Nich Yania also spoke.
