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Education Ministry to expand sanitary napkin programme to all schools from 2026
Colombo, Dec. 23 (Daily Mirror) - The Education Ministry will extend its national programme providing sanitary napkins to schoolgirls across the country from 2026, benefiting over one million students above Grade 6, Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said.
The announcement was made during a discussion on schoolgirls’ hygiene held on December 22 at the Ministry, with Deputy Minister Dr. Madura Seneviratne also in attendance.
The programme, which began in 2024 targeting schoolgirls in rural, estate, and economically disadvantaged areas, will now cover all schools nationwide. The government has allocated Rs. 1.44 billion for the initiative. Under the scheme, eligible female students will receive an annual voucher worth Rs. 1,440 to purchase sanitary napkins, distributed to schools through Provincial Education Offices.
To maintain quality and hygiene, sanitary napkins will be supplied only by institutions registered and certified by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI).
During the discussion, Prime Minister Dr. Amarasuriya highlighted the importance of allowing students to choose sanitary napkins according to their needs and preferences. Officials were also urged to design voucher and distribution mechanisms that address geographical disparities and promote environmentally friendly disposal methods in schools.
Education Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa, and other senior officials were present at the event.
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