Thieves Break Into ‘Period Locker’ And Steal Sanitary Products At University Of Malta
In a disheartening incident, thieves broke into a locker at the University of Malta designed to provide accessible period products for students struggling to afford them.
The initiative, which started two months ago, offers sanitary items donated by VJ Salamone Consumer Lines Ltd. Unfortunately, the locker was damaged over the weekend, with a considerable amount of stock stolen.
The Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU), in a Facebook statement, expressed immense disappointment at the abuse of this essential initiative, aimed at accessibility and inclusion. The KSU is currently examining CCTV footage from the Students’ House, hoping to identify the culprits.
“It is immensely disappointing to see an initiative targeted at accessibility and inclusion being abused of.”
In the meantime, the period locker will be temporarily relocated outside of the KSU office for improved security. However, this relocation is not ideal, as the goal of the initiative was to provide a dignified and respectful service.
KSU president Alex Gaglione had previously mentioned that the council would monitor the use of the period locker products and rely on people’s “decency.”
Gaglione also shared that university social workers had informed the council about students, primarily single mothers, facing socio-economic challenges who could significantly benefit from this initiative.
The issue of period poverty on campus had also been raised by other student organisations. Period poverty is a global concern that affects those who lack access to hygienic menstrual products or the means to afford them.
The initiative at the University of Malta aimed to alleviate this issue, but this recent incident highlights the challenges faced in implementing such vital programs.
What do you make of this incident?