KOLAR: Anthony Sajeeth, 52, still remembers vividly a call from his daughter's school 12 years ago when she got her first period. Anthony reached the school only to find his daughter in distress, embarrassed and helpless as the school had no space for her to change.
That was the first trigger. Now, Anthony is on a mission to establish ‘pink rooms' in govt schools. These rooms offer private spaces with essential hygiene products, enabling young students to manage menstruation with dignity. After building two pink rooms in govt schools in Kolar district, Anthony is now seeking collaboration with others who share his vision.
Anthony established the first pink room at a govt school in Madanahalli, Kolar district, about a year ago, using his personal resources. This facility includes attached toilets (both Indian and western styles), a changing area, a sanitary pad dispenser, and an incinerator for proper disposal. Additionally, the room features two beds and a study desk to accommodate girls during their menstrual cycle.
The second pink room was established at a govt school in Kurugal, Kolar, with financial support from Anthony's social circle and professional associates.
Anthony also runs an NGO named Heart of Giving. It all began with a small gesture of gifting a govt school team jackets with the school name emblazoned on them. "It made such an impact on the students' morale that I was motivated to do more."
"Even while my daughter's experience was lingering in my mind, a colleague walked up to me and suggested there should be a sick room, especially for women. All these gave me the idea for establishing a pink room," he said. "Girl students have no proper toilets that have enough space for privacy. Why should they stay at home and miss their studies because of lack of facilities at school?"
Anthony is the director (facilities) at a gaming company in Bengaluru. His present employer has recognized the significance of this initiative by providing funds to establish a similar facility at Kyalanoor govt school, which has about 350 girl students on its rolls.
To further develop this programme, Anthony has initiated communication with local govt officials and potential corporate sponsors for additional support.