Towards the end of period poverty
Period poverty describes the struggle many low-income women and girls face while trying to afford menstrual products. The term also refers to the increased economic vulnerability women and girls face due the financial burden posed by menstrual supplies. Period poverty does not only affect women and girls in developing countries; it also affects women in wealthy, industrialized countries. Difficulty affording menstrual products can cause girls to stay home from school and work, with lasting consequences on their education and economic opportunities. It can also exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, pushing women and girls closer toward dangerous coping mechanisms [1].
The deprivations associated with period poverty connect strongly to the SDGs, including SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality education), SDG 5 (gender equality), and SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation).
The aim of this project is to work with local NGOs on the development of a local sanitary pad production line. The designed machines will be according to international standards and abide by local norms. The machine will look into the utilization of sustainable material and packaging to have an environmental friendly life cycle. In addition to the reduction of the cost of sanitary pads, the production line will provide job opportunities for vulnerable women in areas where it is most needed. The project will also include working on awareness campaigns that will run in partnership with the Arab Institute of Women at LAU.
[1] https://www.unfpa.org/menstruationfaq
Desire Disciplines
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Computer Science
Psychology
Biology
Business
Team Leader
Industry Partners (Potential)
ACTED
UN Women
LAU Industrial Hub
AIW