The Education Ministry will expand its national programme to provide sanitary napkins to schoolgirls across the country from 2026, benefiting more than one million students above Grade 6, Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said.
The announcement was made during a discussion on schoolgirls’ hygiene held at the Ministry on 22nd of December attended by Deputy Minister Dr. Madura Seneviratne.
The programme, launched in 2024 to support schoolgirls in rural, estate and economically disadvantaged areas, will be extended to all schools nationwide. The government has allocated Rs. 1.44 billion for the initiative.
Under the scheme, eligible female students will receive an annual voucher valued at Rs. 1,440 to purchase sanitary napkins, with vouchers distributed to schools through Provincial Education Offices.
To ensure quality and hygiene standards, sanitary napkins will be supplied only by institutions registered and certified by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI).
Prime Minister Dr. Amarasuriya emphasised the importance of allowing students to select sanitary products according to their individual needs and preferences. She also urged officials to develop effective voucher and distribution mechanisms that address geographical disparities and encourage environmentally friendly disposal methods in schools.
Education Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa and other senior officials were also present at the discussion.
