Pupils Use Debate Platforms to Raise Awareness on Menstrual Hygiene Management

By Alain Kabinda,

School pupils are increasingly using debate platforms to raise awareness on the importance of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), helping to break long-standing silence and stigma surrounding menstruation in schools and communities.

Through inter-school debates between Chakunkula Secondary School and Chestone Secondary School in Lusaka, spoke openly about challenges girls face during menstruation, including limited access to sanitary products, inadequate sanitation facilities, teasing, and lack of proper menstrual health education.

                                       (Chakukula Secondary School Debating)

One of the recent debate motions that attracted attention among learners stated: “Menstrual Hygiene Management should be integrated into the general school health curriculum for all learners rather than taught to girls only.”

                                   (Chestone Secondary School Debating)

The motion sparked meaningful discussions among pupils, with many arguing that educating both boys and girls about menstruation would help reduce stigma, discrimination, and misinformation in schools.

Participants noted that many girls continue missing classes during their menstrual periods due to fear of embarrassment or lack of support from peers. Learners emphasized that involving boys in menstrual health education could help create understanding, empathy, and respect among pupils.

During the debates, pupils highlighted that menstruation is a natural biological process and should not be treated as a taboo subject. They argued that schools have a responsibility to provide accurate information and create safe environments where girls can manage menstruation with dignity and confidence.

Also, pupils called for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools, stressing that access to clean toilets, water, and proper disposal systems remains critical in promoting menstrual hygiene.

Teachers and education stakeholders have praised debate platforms for empowering young people to discuss sensitive health issues confidently while developing leadership and communication skills. Educators say debates are helping learners become advocates for positive social change within their schools and communities.

Health advocates believe youth-led conversations are essential in addressing harmful myths and cultural misconceptions surrounding menstruation. They say allowing pupils to engage openly in discussions promotes awareness and helps normalize menstrual health conversations among young people.

The Competition between Chakunkula Secondary and Chestone Secondary Schools through the debate was a draw.

As menstrual hygiene awareness continues gaining attention nationally and globally, pupils are proving that debate platforms can serve as powerful tools for advocacy, education, and empowerment.

For many learners, these discussions are not simply classroom activities but opportunities to champion dignity, equality, and better health outcomes for girls in schools.

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