Period poverty is a significant concern in developing countries like Fiji, where many women and girls struggle to obtain essential menstrual products. This lack of access can lead to young women missing school or university, negatively impacting their education and future prospects.
In response to this pressing issue, the Fiji National University Students’ Association (FNUSA) has introduced the FemCare Initiative, an innovative program aimed at providing free sanitary pads to all female students starting in Semester 1, 2025. This initiative represents a major advancement in tackling period poverty, empowering female students at FNU, and ensuring that no one struggles in their education due to a lack of vital health resources.
At the launch of the FemCare Initiative, Professor Jimaima Lako, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning & Teaching, highlighted the uniqueness of the program, stating it might be the first of its kind not only in Fiji but also across the Pacific region.
“By initiating the FemCare Initiative, FNUSA is embodying one of the core values of Fiji National University – Care!” mentioned Professor Lako.
She expressed gratitude to FNUSA President Mohammed Iqbal for his vision and congratulated the team for successfully launching the initiative.
“This initiative is timely as it aligns perfectly with Pinktober, a month dedicated to increasing awareness of breast cancer and other health and wellness issues faced by women,” she said.
Professor Lako emphasized that female hygiene and health topics often remain taboo in many communities, but as an educational institution, it is vital to address these issues openly, share experiences, and ensure that community members can identify early signs of female health concerns and seek appropriate medical care.
She urged the FNU community to promote preventive measures since prevention is more effective than treatment.
“You have taken an important step in providing free pads to our female students across all campuses,” she remarked.
Additionally, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor encouraged more men to take the initiative to educate themselves about the needs of their female peers, particularly regarding sexual and reproductive health matters.