Water scarcity and menstrual hygiene challenges impact girls' schooling in Guinea

Public schools in Guinea, such as Centre 1 in Dixinn, Conakry, face significant challenges with water access, which is contributing to the dropout rates among young girls. The school, serving approximately 2,800 students aged 3 to 13, has only one tap where water flows just once a day. This scarcity necessitates students, often girls, fetching water, particularly for latrine use. Experts suggest that inadequate water and sanitation facilities, especially those hindering menstrual hygiene management, are a major factor in girls discontinuing their education. The burden of managing these basic needs often falls on female students, diverting their time and focus from learning. Sources: Le Monde — International.