Last Updated on February 14, 2025, 1:32 AM AST by Anthony Morris
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) launched a Menstrual Health Education Project in public schools during a workshop held at the Nevis Disaster Management Department’s Emergency Operations Centre at Long Point during the first week of February. The aim of this initiative is to advance mental health awareness and support on the island.
Project Assistant at Lake Health and Wellbeing, Jay Robinson, said that the launch of the project is an essential part of health and human rights.
She added that through partnerships, training, and programs, they are ensuring that menstrual health is no longer a topic slid under the carpet, but one embraced with knowledge and empowerment.
This project is supported by Lake Health and Wellbeing, WASH United, UNICEF, and the Advancement of Children Foundation, in partnership with the Nevis Department of Gender Affairs.
Attendees of the launch event
The event was attended by Jamir Claxton (Director of Sports), Nadine Carty (Coordinator at the Nevis Health Promotion Unit), Abi Begho (Program Director at Lake Health and Wellbeing), Lyston Skerritt (Adolescent Development Specialist at the UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area).
This launch event was also attended by guidance counselors, teachers, students, and other stakeholders.
Main of the Menstrual Health Education Project
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Zahnela Claxton, said that this program is designed to remove the barriers by providing accurate information, essential resources, and a supportive environment for the girls, where they can learn about the natural stage of life with dignity and confidence.
Moreover, this initiative will not only teach girls, but also boys so they can understand the important role that they play in the conversation and process of menstruation. Understanding of this process will foster empathy, reduce sigma, and help create a culture both in school and on the island, where no girl feels ashamed.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
