The youth have a key role in shaping the future of the world. Thus, they can be focused as the catalyst for change towards creating a period-friendly world. This was highlighted during a public health awareness program on menstrual health and hygiene, titled ‘Let’s Talk Periods’, held at Berhampur University on Saturday, organized in collaboration with Swasthya Plus Network, IFI Foundation, and OdishaLIVE.
The youth engagement program saw hundreds of students and faculty members from different departments participate actively.
Joining as the Chief Guest, Prof. Geetanjali Dash, Vice Chancellor of the university, said, “Menstruation is a natural and biological process of women’s life. But there are still many stigmas and taboos in society which hinder a woman’s growth and well-being. This can be addressed through appropriate education and awareness. The youth can help spread such awareness at their homes and in the communities.”
Sharing about the ‘Let’s Talk Periods’ campaign, IFI Foundation Co-Chair and Campaign Chair Pranati Parida said, “Menstrual hygiene is very important for the physical and mental health of women. To create widespread awareness on the subject, World Menstrual Hygiene Day is being organized every year. To make this campaign successful, we need to inform, engage, and empower the youth.”
A campaign brochure carrying relevant information and links to educational videos was released on the occasion. Adding value, participants displayed posters highlighting various social messages around sustainable menstrual practices.
Similarly, a special video capsule narrating A to Z on menstrual health and hygiene, along with various health problems related to the subject, was previewed. Further, Dr. Kusum Dash, Senior Consultant, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kalinga Hospital Bhubaneswar, and Public Health Educator Sanjukta Sabat, deliberated on the subject and answered students’ questions.
Among others, the program was graced by Prof. Sukant Kumar Tripathy, Chairman PG Council; Dr. Bandita Kumari Panda, HoD, Department of Journalism & Mass Communication; and Nilambar Rath, Editor & CEO, OdishaLIVE.
The program was moderated by Priyanka Sucharita, while various sessions were coordinated by Amit Kumar Mohanty, Sitansu Sekhar Sutar, and Sushree Smita Behera from OdishaLIVE and Swasthya Plus Network.
IFI Foundation, which has joined the Global Menstrual Hygiene Day Campaign as an Official Partner, has been promoting content for wide digital outreach and hosting youth engagement programs over the past few years. This year, Kalinga Hospital Bhubaneswar and Paradeep Phosphates Limited supported the program as Associate Partners.
