Anthony Sajeeth, a 52-year-old IT professional from Bengaluru, is on a transformative mission to establish ‘pink rooms’ in government schools across Karnataka, aimed at providing essential support for young girls during menstruation. This initiative, which addresses a critical gap in facilities for female students, ensures they have access to private spaces equipped with hygiene products.
The Genesis of the Pink Rooms Initiative
The inspiration for this initiative arose from a deeply personal experience Anthony had twelve years ago when he received a distressing call from his daughter’s school. She had just begun her menstrual cycle and found herself embarrassed and uncomfortable due to the absence of private facilities. This incident became the catalyst for Anthony’s mission to create safe spaces for girls in educational institutions.
The first pink room was established at the Government PU College near Madanahalli Cross in Kolar district, renovated at a cost of ₹2.5 lakh. This facility includes both Indian and Western-style toilets, a changing area, a sanitary pad dispenser, an incinerator for proper disposal, beds, and a study desk. Following its success, Anthony opened a second pink room at the Government High School in Kurugal with financial support from his social circle and professional associates. Recently, another pink room was inaugurated at the Government Karnataka Public School in Kyalnur, funded by corporate social responsibility initiatives from Anthony’s employer.
Addressing Menstrual Health Challenges
In many rural areas, girls often travel long distances to school and face significant challenges due to inadequate menstrual hygiene facilities. Many are forced to miss classes during their periods because of this lack of support. The pink rooms aim to alleviate these issues by providing hygienic spaces where girls can feel secure and comfortable during their menstrual cycles.Anthony’s initiative has garnered attention and support from local government officials and potential corporate sponsors as he seeks to expand this program further. He firmly believes that no girl should have to stay home due to a lack of facilities: “Girl students have no proper toilets that have enough space for privacy. Why should they stay at home and miss their studies because of lack of facilities at school?”
Recent Developments
As of November 19, 2024, Anthony is actively seeking collaborations with local government officials and corporate sponsors to further enhance the reach of the pink rooms initiative. His commitment continues to inspire community engagement, with plans for additional pink rooms in more schools across Karnataka. The positive feedback from students and educators highlights the impact these facilities have on attendance and overall well-being.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we commend initiatives like Anthony Sajeeth’s that foster empathy and understanding towards women’s health issues. Establishing pink rooms is not merely about providing physical spaces; it represents a broader commitment to ensuring dignity and respect for all students, particularly young girls who face societal stigma around menstruation. Such efforts contribute to creating an inclusive educational environment where every child can thrive without fear or embarrassment.
As we reflect on this important initiative, we invite our readers to consider: How can we collectively contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation and support initiatives that empower young girls in our communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
