“VUT FM and IHAU donated sanitary towels to Jordan Secondary School in Sebokeng, supporting girls’ confidence and education during exams.”
18 November 2025 | Story: Thabisang Thebeeapelo | Photo: Keitumetse Mokgope
2 minutes read time.
On 11 November 2025, in a gesture rooted in compassion and community upliftment, VUT FM, together with the Institutional HIV and AIDS Unit (IHAU), donated sanitary towels to female learners at Jordan Secondary School in Sebokeng. Their mission was simple yet profound: to ensure that young girls walk into their exams with dignity, confidence and peace of mind.
The donation formed part of an ongoing commitment by VUT FM and IHAU to address menstrual hygiene challenges that often hinder school attendance and academic performance. Representatives from both units visited the school to hand over the sanitary towels and to affirm the message of health, hygiene and empowerment.
Reflecting on the purpose of the outreach, Mr Vincent Mduli, Assistant Coordinator at IHAU, said, “The purpose of the donation is to restore a girl child’s dignity and make sure that they attend classes without worries about needing sanitary pads during their periods, and to ensure they do not miss writing their final exams this year. We intend to continue with this kind of drive whenever we can.”
Adding to this sentiment, Mr Lehlohonolo Boye, Programmes Coordinator at VUT FM, noted, “We understand that a girl child’s needs go beyond food. Access to sanitary towels is equally essential, especially during this stressful exam period. Providing this support goes a long way in helping them remain focused and confident.”
The school community welcomed the gesture warmly. Principal Mr Koena Paul Mahlaba expressed his gratitude, saying, “What you have done is alleviate some of the challenges our girl learners are facing. Let it not be the last time you make such a difference in their lives, but let it be the beginning so that we can have a long, enduring relationship.”
The collaboration between VUT FM and IHAU stands as a reminder of the university’s commitment to nurturing stronger, more resilient communities. Beyond meeting an immediate need, the initiative reinforced the timeless truth that dignity and opportunity must walk hand in hand for every learner to thrive.