On March 30, 2025, the second day of the Simameni Project’s sewing machine training concluded at North East Villa in Kumi District. This initiative aimed to equip teachers from implementing schools in the Teso Region with practical skills to produce reusable sanitary pads, thereby enhancing menstrual health management among students.
The day commenced with a comprehensive recap led by participants Abule Joseph from Ojetenyang Seed Secondary School and Ochola Josephine from St. Elizabeth Girls Secondary School. Both educators, possessing prior tailoring experience, effectively reinforced the previous day’s lessons, setting an encouraging tone for the sessions ahead.
Facilitators guided attendees through hands-on exercises, focusing on the creation of reusable sanitary pads. Teachers engaged in measuring, cutting materials, and sewing, working collaboratively and seeking guidance as needed. The interactive nature of the session fostered a supportive learning environment.
Subsequent instruction covered sewing machine maintenance, including identification of spare parts, proper servicing techniques such as oiling and dusting, and troubleshooting common issues like needle replacement. Participants’ inquiries regarding maintenance frequency, appropriate oil types, and associated costs were thoroughly addressed by the facilitators.
The training’s significance was underscored by remarks from several distinguished guests:
Francis Omoding, District Education Officer (DEO) of Serere, expressed enthusiasm for the skill-based training aligning with the new curriculum and commended UNATU and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) for their support.
Moses Mathew Ochung, DEO of Ngora, highlighted the potential for improved student performance and retention, urging teachers to apply their new skills diligently.
Duluga Buni Phillip, Deputy General Secretary of UNATU, encouraged participants to disseminate their knowledge within their schools, maintain the sewing machines responsibly, and serve as exemplary ambassadors of the program.
Grace Okwalinga, National Vice Chairperson, emphasized the importance of commitment to the teaching profession and the empowerment that comes with skill acquisition. She advocated for a mindset shift towards valuing practical skills for personal and professional growth.
The event culminated with Sarah Adong, DEO of Kumi, urging continuous learning and innovation among teachers. She encouraged leveraging the acquired skills to develop new ideas and make meaningful contributions within their schools. Adong officially declared the two-day training closed, marking a significant step forward in the Simameni Project’s mission to support girl-child education through practical skill development
