Esther Menyere, project manager for Clean Schools Initiative says they thought of engaging girls at Balaka primary school, so as to ensure that they do not miss classes when menstruating.

"We are currently targeting four primary schools in Balaka, where after impressive waste management initiatives, we are now engaging adolescent girls imparting on them skills pertaining reusable sanitary pad manufacturing," said Menyere.

She says their main mission is to equip students with the expertise and abilities necessary for responsible waste management, nurturing a more pristine, secure, and healthier educational atmosphere in the primary schools within Balaka district.

Headmaster for Balaka primary school Daytoney Malefula says waste management in primary schools project has transformed the environment at the school.

Fabiano Mbendera, School health and nutrition coordinator for Balaka district education office, commended Clean Schools Initiative for the interventions, which he said apart from improving sanitation and hygiene, the reusable pad-making skill imparted on girls, will assist fighting absenteeism among menstruating learners.

The vision according to Clean Schools Initiative is to create a generation of environmentally conscious students who take pride in maintaining cleanliness, champion proper waste management practices, and actively contribute to a sustainable and pollution-free world.