As part of continuing efforts to support and preserve the dignity of students at the University of Pretoria (UP), the Student Health Services unit in the Department of Student Affairs launched a sanitary product drive in March last year in response to students’ request for assistance with free sanitary towels.

UP began promoting the sanitary product drive via social media, mini websites and by word-of-mouth, when students consulted nurses. Since the start of the campaign, the University has distributed more than 4 800 packs through Student Health Services and 600 packs through UP student residences. 

For Thuto Mashila, President of UP’s Student Representative Council, a drive of this nature is vital. “Gender and human nature should not be barriers to academic performance,” she said. “Girls should not be denied access to sanitary pads because of financial implications and constraints. The sanitary pad drive plays a crucial role in ending period poverty.”

According to a 2021 report by British medical journal BMC Women’s Health, the inability to afford sanitary products among university students is associated with poor mental health. Lack of sanitary products also has health implications such as compromised hygiene and the onset of infections. Furthermore, research has shown that students who do not have access to sanitary products are likely to miss lectures.

“It is a proud moment for UP to be one of the first universities in South Africa to provide free sanitary products to students,” says Phina Sokho, administrative officer at Student Health Services. “It has become increasingly important that the provision of free pads be extended to higher education. We would like to thank Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe and Professor Themba Mosia, Vice-Principal: Student Life, for securing funding to make sure that all students are covered.”

Students can request a pack of sanitary pads by filling in a Google form. An administrator will respond within 24 hours with an email informing the student of a date, time and place for them to collect their free products.

To request free sanitary towels, follow the steps below:

1.         Click here.

2.         Select your campus.

3.         Wait for an email containing a collection date, time and place.