!Nkongo College Youth Empower Girls With Reusable Pads

By Staff Reporter

During a courtesy visit to !Nkongo Community College in Okongo, Ohangwena Region, Prime Minister Dr. Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare praised the youth’s innovation after witnessing the production of reusable sanitary pads, aimed at supporting schoolgirls in rural Namibia.

A highlight of the visit was the presentation of washable sanitary pads, many of which are distributed to schoolgirls in remote areas to promote hygiene and reduce absenteeism. The initiative reflects the college’s mission to empower youth with practical skills that bring direct impact to communities.

The project was first launched in 2023 when ten indigenous young women from Mukwe Constituency received training in basic sewing and business skills. The training was made possible through Debmarine Namibia’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, which provided financial and technical support.

As a result, the group successfully produced 500 reusable sanitary pads and school uniforms, which were donated to Ndjabeka Primary School, located on the Namibia-Angola border. The school serves a large number of marginalized learners who benefit directly from such community-driven efforts.

Since its establishment, !Nkongo Community College has trained 108 individuals from across Namibia. The institution offers a wide range of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, including Hospitality and Tourism, equipping young people with essential skills for both employment and entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, by combining innovation with empowerment, !Nkongo Community College continues to transform lives through education and skills training. Its sanitary pad project not only addresses a pressing social need but also showcases how youth-driven initiatives can create lasting community impact.

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