For millions of girls, the simple lack of a safe toilet or private hygiene space—Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)—is a barrier that forces them to miss school or drop out entirely.

Our work at Gulu Disabled Persons Union (GDPU) champions an integrated WASH program that is more than just infrastructure; it’s an empowering investment in human potential and a commitment to inclusive learning environment where every girlchild feel safe and confident to stay at school and achieve the very best of their potential.

A Five Stance Latrine Constructed Fitted with an Incinerator and Changing Room along with Water Tank

The most critical impact is through dedicated Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), ensuring girls can manage their periods with dignity. Our program guarantees this by facilitating the construction of drainable latrines fitted with changing rooms that include clean, safe water for use, providing a private sanctuary. To complete the MHM loop, the program also builds incinerators for the safe and discreet disposal of menstrual waste, ensuring girls never have to sacrifice their empowerment and education for a natural life process.

Learners of Tochi Primary School Happily Displays their Hand Made Reusable Sanitary Pads after a Menstrual Health Hygiene and Management Training.

Supported by the Advocacy Project, Our program’s power extends beyond menstrual hygiene management to enhance overall health and safety. The construction of well-maintained and secure facilities, paired with the provision of free liquid soap, significantly reduces the risk of infection and boosts girls’ self-esteem. Furthermore, we directly improves Health and Attendance by providing clean environments and conducting crucial malaria prevention and testing training, drastically reducing illness-related absences and empowering girls to remain healthy and focused in the classroom.

Learner of Awach Central Primary School Lining Up to be Tested and Potentially Treated After Malaria Prevention and Testing Training.

The long-term success of this program lies in sustainable “software” and profound community partnership. This involves specialized Menstrual Hygiene Training (MHT) and integrating WASH into life-skills education to instill lifelong habits. We envision a world where student-led WASH Clubs are actively engaging with the local community and parents in training and maintenance, we foster vital ownership and ensures the empowerment is enduring.

Our Mission is Clear, Empower Learners to Feel Confident and Support Each other with WASH Related Issues within their Learning Space.

In essence, our gender-responsive WASH program isn’t just about constructing toilets; it’s about demolishing the barriers to education. It ensures every girl can attend school comfortably, reach her full potential, and contribute to a healthier, more equitable future for us all. GDPU is fueling the next generation of female leaders—but who will answer the call for the millions of girls whose safe, dignified school day has yet to arrive?