16/06/2025
▪Why Puberty Adolescence Health Education Network (PAHEN) is Delivering Menstrual Health and Hygiene Programs
▪Our Story: How It Began
☘️The journey of PAHEN started with a deep concern and firsthand experience. As a dedicated primary school teacher with over 35 years in the classroom, I witnessed the silent struggles faced by school-aged girls during menstruation. Many girls were forced to leave school when they had their periods simply because there were no proper facilities or access to sanitary products. The issue of absenteeism due to menstruation was a recurring concern — one that affected girls’ education, confidence, and health.
☘️In 2020, we decided to act. We carried out a mini survey in three primary schools within the National Capital District (Port Moresby), focusing on the real issues and challenges girls face during puberty and menstruation. A total of 90 girls participated in this research — 30 from each school. Due to COVID-19 protocols, we conducted one-on-one interviews to collect accurate, personal insights.
☘️The findings were eye-opening and underscored the urgent need for a focused program on menstrual health. With support and funding from Papua New Guinea Education Advocacy Network (PEAN), the research findings were presented to the NCD Education School Inspectors, headteachers, classroom teachers, and stakeholders at the Lamana Hotel Conference Room on April 1, 2022.
▪Formation of PAHEN and the Path Forward
☘️Following this, a committed group of teachers came together and officially formed the Puberty Adolescence Health Education Network (PAHEN), a registered organization with IPA and IRC. Since then, we have been actively engaged in menstrual health and hygiene initiatives. We joined hands with NGOs like WaterAid PNG through the Community of Practice (COP) platform, working alongside other organizations advocating for better menstrual health support and education for girls and women across Papua New Guinea.
☘️In 2024, our efforts were recognized by UNICEF PNG, who sponsored PAHEN to deliver menstrual health programs to two schools in Bogia District, Madang Province. This milestone has been a proud and motivating moment for us as a community based organization.
▪Why We Continue
☘️PAHEN runs menstrual health and hygiene programs not only to address a basic health need but also to empower girls and women. Our programs are educational, practical, and sustainable — we teach life skills such as sewing reusable sanitary cloth pads that are safe, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. These initiatives enable girls to stay in school and give women in low-income communities the tools to manage their menstrual health with dignity and independence.
☘️We remain committed to this mission and continue to seek partnerships, sponsors, engagement, and funding to expand our impact and reach more girls and women in Papua New Guinea who need this support the most.
