Today, March 26th, 2025 marked the beginning of a two-day teacher training workshop on the use of sewing machines, held at Tooro Royal Cottages in Kyenjojo District. This initiative, part of the Simameni Project, aims to equip schools in the Western Region with essential sewing skills to enhance Menstrual Health Management and Hygiene. A total of 36 teachers from participating schools attended the training.
David Mugyeni, the Regional Chair, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of sustaining the project despite its nearing conclusion. He expressed gratitude to UNATU and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation for their support and encouraged the teachers to be diligent in learning, so they can, in turn, teach students and fellow educators how to effectively use the sewing machines.
Buni Duluga Phillip, Deputy General Secretary of UNATU, also addressed the participants, outlining the vision and mission of UNATU. He spoke about the significance of professional identity through corporate wear and introduced the new ID card machines that will streamline the printing of identification cards. He stressed the importance of teacher unity in achieving common goals and extended condolences to members facing hardships. He urged vigilance in professional responsibilities and highlighted that the training is skill-based, aimed at equipping both schools and students with practical knowledge for sustainable living. He underscored the necessity of menstrual health management and the need for a supportive environment to ensure retention and reliability in schools. He officially declared the training open, urging participants to engage actively.
Kabagaya Hellen, Project Officer for Simameni Western Region, elaborated on the training’s objectives:
- To ensure that students in project schools acquire skills to make reusable sanitary pads, thus promoting proper menstrual health management.
- To eliminate barriers to accessing necessary materials and supplies for menstrual health management.
During the first day, participants were introduced to sewing machines, learning about their operation and mechanics. Teachers practiced the leg movement required for manual operation, followed by a session on threading the machine. The day concluded with a hands-on activity where participants practiced sewing straight lines.
Teachers expressed appreciation for the training and eagerly anticipated the second day of learning. The initiative continues to reinforce the importance of equipping schools with practical skills that contribute to students’ well-being and empowerment.
