June 5, 2026
The Ghana Pharmaceutical Students Association (GPSA), in collaboration with the Lady Students Pharmacy Association of Ghana (LASPAG) of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) School of Pharmacy (SOP), marked World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026 with an outreach program at Sokode-Lokoe Technical Institute on Thursday, May 29, 2026.
Speaking on the theme “Zero Stain, Zero Barriers: Breaking Stigma, Building Confidence, Owning Our Voices”, Dr. Thelma Alalbila Aku, Chairperson and Patron of LASPAG, emphasized the importance of dismantling societal stereotypes surrounding menstruation. She urged young girls to embrace their identity while encouraging male involvement in advocacy, dialogue and education to normalize menstrual health conversations.
Dr. Alalbila, who also heads the Department of Pharmacy, UHAS-SOP, cautioned students against misinformation online, advising them to rely on credible sources for health-related knowledge.
During a panel discussion, Dr. Hilda Amekyeh, Senior Lecturer and Head of Department for Pharmaceutics, UHAS-SOP, reminded students that menstruation is a biological process, not a taboo. She warned against allowing superstitious beliefs to affect mental well-being and explained that hormonal variations make menstrual experiences unique, sometimes painful, and deserving of professional medical attention when necessary.
Dr. Mike Okweesi Aggrey of the Department of Pharmacognosy & Herbal Medicine, UHAS-SOP, highlighted the need to educate males on menstrual hygiene to foster inclusive and supportive communities.
The interactive session, moderated by Ms. Yasmine Bashiru of GPSA-UHAS, featured contributions from Dr. Erica Mensah, Ms. Fridaus Elgina Adams and Mr. Joseph Elorm Barlo. Dr. Araaba Hutton-Nyameaye, the Clinical Coordinator of UHAS-SOP, reinforced the message that menstruation is not a punishment but a natural part of life, urging males to support females during menstrual cramps.
Ms. Willette Dzamefe, LASPAG Coordinator for the Zero Stain Project, explained that the initiative targets young girls in second-cycle institutions, aiming to debunk myths, promote proper hygiene and restore confidence.
As part of the outreach, sanitary pads were distributed to students to ensure access to essential products.
Ms. Aku Perfect Fiakordzo, Principal of Sokode-Lokoe Technical Institute, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school’s management for the insightful discussions and generous support.
This annual outreach underscores UHAS School of Pharmacy’s commitment to menstrual health advocacy, empowering young women while fostering inclusive dialogue that involves both genders.
