Bridging students receive their menstrual hygiene management reusable products.

The Australian Government funded Kiribati Facility has been supporting Kiribati Institute of Technology (KIT) with the continuation of its pilot project for the provision of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) products for students.

The pilot began in 2021 and the products have so far been distributed to KIT’s Mother’s Club and, more recently, its Bridging students.

KIT female staff posing with their new menstrual hygiene management products.

It was identified that young women often miss classes when they have their periods and cannot access menstrual hygiene products on campus.

The menstrual hygiene management project at KIT empowers young women with access to disposable and reusable products so that they can manage their cycle without affecting their class attendance.

The project also aims to remove the stigma associated with periods by normalising menstrual hygiene practices and products through education and promotional campaigns.

Products were sourced based on their demonstrated effectiveness and company values towards period poverty and its relationship to education. The products have been provided to KIT students with instructions on how to use hygienically and effectively.

As part of the MHM pilot roll-out, the Student Support Services team have conducted a survey to gather some data and feedback on how staff and students are finding the use and access to the products.

KIT Bridging female students when completing her survey form online.

The outcome of the project so far has received some positive anecdotal evidence from students. There were 19 students and 12 staff who completed the survey.

“I really want to thank KIT for overseeing our issues as teenagers in dealing with periods during our study. The menstrual kit that I received is designed very well and comfortable to use too, with these newly improved [women’s products], I am sure that I’ll do very well.” – Bridging student survey testimonial.

The next stage of the project is to be carried out once all students are back from work placement.