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74% of Odisha Girls Miss Classes Due to Periods
7 Jun
Summary
- Nearly 74% of female students in Odisha miss school days due to menstruation.
- Pain and discomfort are primary reasons for absenteeism among students.
- Many schools lack adequate menstrual hygiene facilities and waste disposal.
Absence from school during menstruation remains a significant issue for female students in Odisha, with a recent study indicating that approximately 74% miss between one to eight days of classes each cycle. Pain and discomfort were identified as the main reasons for this absenteeism, compounded by a lack of privacy, inadequate facilities, and prevailing social stigma.
The study, conducted across 14 districts for educational institutions and eight for public facilities, exposed ongoing deficiencies in menstrual hygiene management, sanitation infrastructure, awareness, and support systems. While most surveyed schools have separate girls' toilets, crucial elements like water, soap, and proper menstrual waste disposal are often missing or inadequate.
In Bhubaneswar, adolescents have been assessing public spaces to identify needs for period-friendly facilities. A project is now underway to demonstrate inclusive toilet models in high-footfall areas, aiming to improve dignity, hygiene, and comfort in public spaces for women, girls, and persons with disabilities.
