Makerere University female students are excited about a planned offer of free sanitary pads by the 84^th Guild. A statement by the guild health minister, Reagan Emoru announced that the guild will distribute free pads to every female student, staff and the neighbouring community.

The students journalism@mak talked to say this is a great move and will help many who cannot afford these pads.

"This is a great move. There are girls out there who cannot afford these pads but are silent about it. Therefore, this is a great opportunity for them and even us all," says Tracy Nayiga, a Bachelor of Journalism and Communication student.

This was supported by Oliver Nakayima, another student. She says, “I am very happy about this practice and I hope to get at least three packets because one packet cannot be enough."

Sharon Batamuriza, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Records and Archives Management can’ wait for Tuesday when the canpiagn starts. "Tuesday seems far, but I think I will be the first on the line to get these sanitary pads. This is a great opportunity for all girls and I don't think someone can deliberately miss it out."

In the statement, Emoru said they have secured over 10 million pads to distribute to all female students of Makerere University from 16^th - 19th October at the Freedom Square. The campaign is part of a project between the 84^th guild and Health Shuya Uganda, and is part of the health week taking place at the Freedom Square.  Students will also receive different health services which include Hepatitis vaccination, Cervical Cancer screening, Yellow Fever vaccination, male circumcision, deworming services among others.

Hanipha Yahya, a student of Development Studies however says this campaign should be extended to the villages where young girls have no access to pads, which is increasing school drop outs among young girls.