World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI) is set to launch Phase 3 of its School Health and Hygiene Project in Guadalcanal Province (GP) next month.
This was built on the success of previous menstrual hygiene management initiatives.
The new project will be funded by the NBSI Health and Welfare Trust through a grant of USD $50,000. It will run from May 1 to November 30, 2025.
Over the course of seven months, the project will benefit approximately 400 female students across four schools: St Francis Vaturanga Community High School, Ghaobata Community High School, Numbu Community High School, and Ruavatu National Secondary School.
WVSI is partnering with M&J Enterprises, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development to address a critical gap in menstrual hygiene management education and resources.
In Solomon Islands, only 34% of the population has access to basic sanitation services, and just 36% has access to handwashing facilities.
These challenges, combined with cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, often result in girls missing school or dropping out entirely. This project aims to tackle these issues by promoting education, dignity, and inclusion.
As part of the initiative, age-appropriate female students will receive locally-manufactured ‘Kaleko SteiFree’ kits, which include reusable shields and padded liners, soap, product care information, a tote bag, and a zip-lock bag. With proper care, these environmentally-friendly kits can last up to three years, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
In addition to distributing kits, WVSI will host awareness-raising sessions for both male and female students and teachers. These sessions aim to increase understanding of menstrual hygiene and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Furthermore, St. Francis Vaturanga Community High School will receive a solar-powered water pumping system to enhance access to clean water and support better hygiene practices.
The project builds on WVSI’s prior collaboration with UNICEF through the Solomon Islands Better Learning Environment (SIBLE) project, as well as the 2022 and 2024 Menstrual Hygiene Management projects, also funded by the NBSI Health and Welfare Trust.
John Sullivan KC, trustee of the NBSI Health and Welfare Trust, says that he is delighted to partner with World Vision in this important contribution to community health and education. This is the third menstrual hygiene project and the sixth World Vision project funded by the Trust and John looks forward to continuing the relationship into the future.
This initiative has been made possible through the generous support of the NBSI Health and Welfare Trust.
– WVSI Press
