MENSTRUAL HYGIENE MANAGEMENT AND SCHOOL DROPOUT AMONG FEMALE ADOLESCENT STUDENTS OF JIGJIGA SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL, IN JIGJIGA CITY ADMINISTRATION. SOMALI REGIONAL STATE

Abstract

This study examines the menstrual hygiene management (MHM) on the education of adolescent girls at Jigjiga Senior Secondary School, Ethiopia. A mixed-methods approach was used to reveal a critical convergence of knowledge gaps, socio-economic constraints, and inadequate infrastructure that severely disrupts schooling. Findings show significant knowledge deficits, with 49% of girls lacking understanding of menstruation and 67.5% unaware of hygienic practices. School Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities were overwhelmingly deficient, fostering an environment of fear and anxiety. These challenges directly contributed to universal absenteeism. The study concludes that poor MHM, driven by structural, educational, and economic barriers, creates a direct pathway to school absenteeism, academic under-performance, and elevated dropout risk. Recommendations include implementing school-based MHM education, providing free sanitary products, urgently improving WASH infrastructure, training teachers, and exploring pain management solutions. Addressing these issues is essential for advancing gender equality and improving educational outcomes for girls in similar contexts