Water Scarcity, Hygiene, and Dropouts: Media’s Role in Overcoming Puberty Barriers for Indian Schoolgirls
摘要
The inadequate hygiene infrastructure due to water scarcity and deeply ingrained cultural taboos converge to create significant hindrances to education for adolescent schoolgirls in India, particularly during the stage of puberty. These interrelated challenges exacerbate absenteeism and dropout rates, disproportionately affecting girls, especially from marginalized communities. The lack of clean water and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) facilities in schools creates an environment of stigma, discomfort, and health risks. These inadequacies, coupled with patriarchal norms and economic constraints, limit girls’ ability to manage menstruation effectively and attend school consistently. The cumulative impact manifests as lost educational opportunities, diminished self-esteem, and broader societal inequities. This study examines the critical role of media in addressing these multifaceted issues and proposes strategic interventions to empower girls and ensure educational continuity. The media can offer a transformative avenue for addressing these barriers through awareness, advocacy, and educational innovations. Effective campaigns can normalize discussions around menstruation, challenge taboos, amplify grassroots solutions, and foster a supportive ecosystem. By addressing these barriers, the media can drive systemic change, empowering schoolgirls and advancing gender equity in education.