A pilot project is starting in Aizkraukle and Balvos, providing free hygiene products in schools

Esther Appen

Andreja Upīša, 11th grade student of Skrīveru Secondary School

“It’s not a problem at all to get out of the cabin there, because everything is available at arm’s length. Very convenient, I’m glad that I don’t have to go to the nurse or the teacher, that everything is in place and I don’t even have to tell anyone.”

The aim of the pilot project is to understand what amount of goods each school needs and what difficulties they face. Previous experience shows that the costs are not high, emphasizes the school director.

Ievinas Pilkas

Andreja Upīša, director of Skrīveru Secondary School

“We bought two hundred for one month, which we are also selling. Practically within the framework of 20 euros, as it is not a large cost per month for the well-being of girls and women, which belongs to a good environment at school.”

The school nurse is responsible for the inventory of hygiene products during the pilot project.

Inta Blumberga

Nurse of Andreja Upiš Skriveri Secondary School

“It can be understood quite well as far as it goes. Just walk around and check. It is such a sensitive stage when girls become teenagers and are very reluctant to approach adults, including me. It is possible for them to use sanitary products free of charge, as needed.”

Hygiene items are provided in the pilot project, but the schools themselves have to figure out where and how to place them – Andrejas Upīš Skrīveru Secondary School approached this creatively, its technical staff created special boxes, and the visual arts teacher painted them.

During the break, TV3 News meets Nora and Maija – the appearance of hygiene products in the school toilets was a pleasant surprise for them too.

Maya and Nora

Students of Andreja Upīša Skrīveru Secondary School

“I’m also very supportive, because I’ve been studying for the tenth year – we’ve never had one. And they are suddenly available. This is very useful, especially if there is a stay at home. It also helps people who don’t have as many resources feel more comfortable in a school environment. I strongly support this idea.”

Although the government promises to resolve the issue of the availability of free hygiene products in schools by January 1 next year, the school director says that at the moment it seems that the responsibility will fall on the shoulders of the municipality.

Ievinas Pilkas

Andreja Upīša, director of Skrīveru Secondary School

“It would be very good if the state would, of course, support, because basically everything is already placed on the shoulders of the municipality, but as the chairman of the county council Mr. Līdums said, he supports this project and will also support these costs within the budget.”

The results of the pilot project will be compiled, presented and submitted to the government in June this year.

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