“There has been an increase in attendance and attitudinal change in both girls and boys concerning menstruation and menstrual hygiene. Most of the girls used to stay at home during their menstruation but with the introduction of menstruation, menstrual health and hygiene and provisions of menstrual pads almost all the girls come to school regularly.” (EduSpots’ Catalyst)

The Ignite Equity strand is one of EduSpots’ programmes designed to support Equity Sparks – Junior High 2 learners aged 12–15 with leadership, gender equity awareness, and active citizenship skills. Each club comprises 20–25 Sparks, ensuring a balanced mix of boys and girls, and is facilitated by Catalysts (local changemakers) who are trained and supported through regular check-ins, resource packs, and interactive WhatsApp and monthly coaching sessions.

The programme runs on a monthly challenge model, where each month focuses on a unique theme such as gender equity plays, global citizenship, menstrual hygiene, career exploration, and self-leadership. Sparks engage in practical, creative, and community-centred activities, from drama performances and campaign posters to enterprise projects and advocacy walks, fostering both skills development and social change.

In addition to supporting Sparks, Ignite Equity creates an ecosystem of engagement by involving Catalysts, peer mentors, and community members. Catalysts benefit from capacity-building sessions, resource support, and peer-to-peer learning, while communities gain visibility into the learners’ achievements through events like the Period Project Launch, career walkshops, and graduation celebrations.

The strand intentionally addresses gender participation imbalances by encouraging more boys to join, while also creating safe, inclusive spaces for girls to lead and speak up.

Impact Case Studies: 

Zangbalun Spot

In the rural community of Zangbalun, where farming is the primary livelihood and educational opportunities are scarce, the Ignite Equity strand has become a powerful force for community dialogue. Established in 2022 by Abdul-Malik Iddrisu and currently supported by a team of 12 Catalysts, the Zangbalun Spot has been addressing gender-based challenges and supporting over 150 learners and community members to reach their fullest potential.

Through the Ignite Equity programme in 2024, the team organised sensitisation events for parents, chiefs and community elders that challenge harmful gender norms, such as early marriage and the undervaluing of girls’ education, especially their participation in activities during and after school.

The learners have also been inspired to advocate for change in their community through practical skills to manage menstrual and personal hygiene sustainably, breaking down barriers that often keep them out of school.

Abdul-Malik Iddrisu, the founder of Zangbalun Spot, reflects on the impact:

“The most significant impact created in Zangbalun is that the Spot is bringing back the love for education. Before the establishment of the various clubs, the children gave up on education due to numerous challenges. Some of these challenges included a lack of knowledge of the importance of education, low literacy skills, a lack of learning resources, limited knowledge of career guidance and self-care, etc. But with the introduction of the Ignite Equity club with monthly challenges, my learners are beginning to realise their potential.”

Ameyaw Spot

In the Techiman North District, Janet Owusuaa Karikari, a dedicated Catalyst, noticed an alarming rate of school dropouts, particularly among girls. Determined to make a difference, she mobilised a team of 10 teachers to establish the Ameyaw Spot in 2023, having served as a Catalyst at Sakasaka Spot, where she was initially stationed as a teacher. With a focus on the Ignite Equity strand, Janet and her team set out to create a safe space for learners to thrive.

Through a grant funding of GHS 1000, Ameyaw Spot launched a social enterprise model producing liquid soap, with proceeds reinvested into a sanitary pad bank. They organised a community event to involve parents in marketing the products, creating a sustainable cycle of support. The club also took an inclusive approach, engaging both girls and boys in discussions about self-care, mutual respect, and advocacy.

The impact has been profound. Baffowaa Oscarline, a learner, shared, “Through Ignite Equity, I have gained knowledge on how to care for myself during menstruation. I now see myself as a role model for the younger ones in my community. Additionally, I have learned how to report cases of sexual harassment. Most importantly, I have developed the confidence and skills to express myself creatively, I can now write my own poems.”

Boys, too, have been transformed. Opoku Ameyaw Collins reflected, “Being part of Ignite Equity has impacted my life positively. I have learned how to relate to girls during their menstrual period with understanding and support. As an adolescent boy, I have also gained important knowledge on how to take care of myself. I have realised the importance of speaking up and reporting any problems I face without fear.”

Ameyaw Spot’s efforts were recognised in 2024 with two prestigious awards: Spot of the Year for their outstanding teamwork and innovative enterprise model, and Ignite Equity Club of the Year for their inclusive and impactful approach. Ameyaw Spot stands as a great example of how Ignite Equity empowers learners, fosters inclusion, and drives sustainable community change.

Equity Sparks and Sample Challenge Submissions:

Monthly Challenges