The Role of Menstrual Hygiene Management Interventions in Improving School Participation in South Sudan

Abstract

The present study aims to determine whether Plan International Netherlands’ Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) activities in South Sudan successfully enable young women and girls of menstruating age (14-24) to participate in school. The success of a given intervention was measured along the three dimensions of efficiency, appropriateness, and effectiveness. A total of 56 participants with varying expertise in health service provision and teaching were surveyed working in the counties of Yei, Rumbek and Pibor in South Sudan. Following the surveys, seven in-depth interviews were conducted. Results indicated efficiency as the lowest-ranking dimension. Service providers reported lack of funds, lack of sanitary pads and information/training on MHM as the largest gaps in services. Furthermore, intervention activities were rated as appropriate. Participants considered the distribution of MHM materials to be fitting for the needs and preferences of the target population, but there was a lack of male involvement in the intervention. Finally, effectiveness was the highest-ranking dimension. Program evaluation reports showed an increase in girls’ school participation after receiving MHM intervention activities. Overall, MHM activities can be considered successful in promoting school participation in South Sudan. Potential areas of improvement are: training teaching and implementation staff on MHM, raising MHM awareness and participation amongst men and raising the profile of MHM activities as a humanitarian focus area with donor organizations and local governments.