· The Department of Social Development underspent R102 million, money that could have bought sanitary pads for learners in need.
· Principals report girls sharing one pack of pads among several family members, while others resort to rags and newspapers.
The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has slammed the Department of Social Development for failing to use money that could have given schoolgirls dignity and support.
According to the department’s fourth quarterly report for 2024/25, it underspent its budget by R102 million.
Refiloe Nt’sekhe, the party’s shadow MEC for social development, said the funds could have paid for vital services, including sanitary pads for learners.
“Many girls in South Africa miss several days of school each year due to a lack of access to sanitary towels,” said Ntsekhe.
She said some are forced to use newspapers and rags, which put their health at risk and disrupt their schooling.
During an oversight visit to a school in Tembisa, a principal told her that learners often do not have pads.
“He shared that while one girl might receive a pack, she may have to share it with six other women at home. Also the donations are infrequent, leaving the girls to face ongoing challenges,” Nt’sekhe said.
She added that at another Gauteng school, 300 girls in Grades 8 and 9 are in desperate need of sanitary pads.
For many poor families, pads are too expensive, and parents must choose between them and other essentials.
Research shows 3.7 million schoolgirls across South Africa cannot afford monthly pads, losing a week of school every month.
Nt’sekhe said the Democratic Alliance will continue to push for free access to sanitary products so that learners can focus on their education and future.
Pictured above: Sanitary pad
Image source: TheWriterWoman_
