Under the Safe School Bill initiative, Hiwot Ethiopia, with support from the Malala Fund and in collaboration with JAG (Joint Action Grant), WEAction, ESD, and COS, recently distributed school supplies and sanitary pads to 120 female students across three secondary schools in Debre Berhan, North Shewa Zone of Amhara.

The beneficiary schools Goshbado Secondary School, Baso Secondary School, and Keyet Secondary School each received assistance for 40 girls. The donated items included scholastic supplies and menstrual hygiene management products, addressing two major barriers that often hinder girls from attending and staying in school.

By promoting menstrual health management and ensuring access to essential learning materials, the project seeks to foster a safer, more inclusive educational environment. This effort aligns with broader goals of empowering young women and advancing gender equity in education.

During the distribution event, representatives from the Debre Berhan Education Office, school principals, and students all expressed heartfelt gratitude to Hiwot Ethiopia and its partners.

As one school director remarked, “This support is more than just materials it is a commitment to ensuring that girls are not left behind in their education. It helps students focus on their studies with dignity and confidence.” A student added, “Sometimes we miss classes because we don’t have the supplies or sanitary pads we need. Now we feel supported and motivated to stay in school.”