The Intersection of Literacy and Health: Supporting Girls Through Education

In many communities worldwide, especially in regions like Kenya where our nonprofit, Keyang Tipin Foundation, operates, the lack of access to education significantly impacts girls' academic and economic prospects and health and wellbeing. Education and health are deeply interconnected, and this is apparent in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C) and in tackling period poverty. 

Literacy and Health Awareness

Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write; it is a powerful tool that equips individuals to make informed decisions about their health and bodies. When girls are educated, they can access information about their rights, their bodies, and the resources available to them. This knowledge is crucial in preventing harmful practices like FGM/C and managing menstrual health with dignity.

Studies have shown more educated mothers are less likely to have daughters who undergo FGM/C.. Girls and women are more aware of the health risks associated with the practice, such as severe pain, infections, complications in childbirth, and even death. Furthermore, educated girls are more likely to advocate for themselves and others, challenging the cultural norms reinforcing these practices.

Education and Managing Menstrual Health 

Period poverty is the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and education; it is another significant issue affecting girls' health and their ability to stay in school. When girls are uninformed about menstruation and lack the necessary resources to manage it, they often miss school during their periods, which can lead to falling behind in their studies and potentially dropping out altogether.

However, when girls are educated, they understand what menstruation is and how to manage it safely and hygienically. Literacy enables them to read about and understand the importance of menstrual hygiene, the types of products available, and how to use them correctly. This knowledge challenges stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation, allowing girls to continue their education uninterrupted.

Our Work: Literacy as a Health Intervention 

At Keyang Tipin, we view education as a fundamental health intervention. Our programs are designed to provide girls with access to quality education and to integrate health education into the curriculum. We fund girls’ education, conduct workshops on menstrual health management and gender-based violence, distribute hygiene products, and provide resources on the dangers of FGM/C for the girls and community members. By doing so, we support girls and the broader community with the knowledge girls need to make healthy choices for themselves and their futures.

As we commemorate the International Day of Literacy today, we reaffirm our commitment to using education to improve health outcomes for girls in Kenya. Every girl deserves to learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment. Through literacy, girls are equipped to break free from the cycles of poverty, illness, and harmful practices, enabling them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Get Involved: Support Our Education and Health Initiatives

We invite you to join us in this mission. Your support helps us provide the necessary resources and education to high-risk girls. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our work, you can make a difference in girls' lives in West Pokot, Kenya. Together, we can ensure that girls have the knowledge and tools they need to lead healthy lives, free from the threats of FGM/C and period poverty.

Thank you for your continued support. Let’s work together to uplift the next generation of women with education and health. Click here to donate!

Thank you,

Keyang Tipin Team

keyangtipin@gmail.com

Kenya phone: +254 0721316917

US phone: +1 (919) 590-5904