For 15-year-old Joshua Phiri of Chamber Valley Primary School, menstruation used to be a taboo subject. Like many boys, he knew little about it. When girls in his class faced menstrual accidents, Joshua admits he would laugh—thinking it was “normal.”
But everything changed after he attended menstrual health sensitization sessions led by trained peer educators under the METRO Project.
“I regret my behavior towards girls. I did it out of ignorance. I now understand that menstruation is a normal, natural occurrence. I know the changes that happen to both boys and girls during puberty, and I’ve learned the best hygiene practices to manage this stage,” Joshua shared with a smile.
Today, Joshua is a changed young man. He no longer laughs at girls—instead, he steps up to support them.
He helps classmates cover themselves in case of an accident.
He counsels his younger sister about menstruation with confidence.
He even sets aside money to buy pads for girls in need.
Joshua’s story is proof that menstrual health education changes attitudes, restores dignity, and builds allies among boys and girls alike.
With support from the German Government and Stiftung Kinderzukunft, more young people like Joshua are shaping a future where menstrual health is understood, respected, and supported.
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