International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.  Established by the United Nations in 1975, it is a day to recognize the achievements of women and call for action to accelerate gender parity.  Various organizations advocating for women's equality come together on this day to celebrate women's achievements and engage in impactful activities worldwide.

<In India>

Menstrual Health Awareness Education in Public Schools and Hostels near Sricity Plant

Period: FY2024

• Unicharm India Private Limited (Unicharm India) collaborated with the Andhra Pradesh government to conduct workshops on menstruation across public schools and girls' hostels near its Sricity plant, reaching over 1,000 female students.
• In a culture where menstruation remains a significant taboo, these workshops provided a safe space for girls to learn about the physical and emotional changes during puberty and gain accurate knowledge about menstruation.
• The program also educated girls on choosing the right menstrual products and distributed Sofy sanitary napkins.
• This school education program, which reached approximately 130,000 female students last year, will continue this fiscal year.

Leadership Development Program for Female Employees: "Break the Glass Ceiling and Power Through"

Period: March 2024 - Present

• Unicharm India conducted a Leadership Development Program to empower its female employees to take proactive steps in their career advancement.
• The program addresses real-world challenges faced by women, encourages discussion on overcoming them, and fosters a growth mindset to break down barriers.
• 47 women from various departments within Unicharm India participated in this hybrid program, combining in-person and online sessions.
• Launched on International Women's Day last year, this program will continue an ongoing basis.

<In Kenya>

Local Production and Sales of Sanitary Napkins in Kenya

Period: January 2025 – Present

• The penetration rate of sanitary napkins in the African market remains low, particularly in Kenya, where it stands at approximately 30%.
• While Unicharm previously imported and sold its premium sanitary napkin, "SOFY Deep Absorb," in Kenya, many women faced financial barriers to using sanitary napkins regularly.
• To address this, Unicharm began local production of "SOFY Long Lasting," a sanitary napkin with reliable quality at an affordable price and launched sales in January 2025.
• Unicharm continues its efforts to create an environment where more women have access to sanitary products.

<In Indonesia>

"United in Uniqueness - Unicharm Supports the Advancement of Indonesian Women"- Online Talk show event

Date: March 19, 2025

• Unicharm Indonesia conducted a female leadership training program online with more than 50 participants.
• The speaker of the online talk show, Ms. Siti Komarianingsih S.ST. M Kes, Head of Gender Mainstreaming Division of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Agency of Karawang Regency, was joined by Ms. Amira Kun Nadia, Miss Indonesia 2019 representing Aceh Province, and Ms. Ayoe Sutomo M. Psi, a psychologist. 

Gender disparities in education and employment opportunities persist in many countries and regions, presenting significant challenges. By providing superior products and services that free women from anxieties and discomfort associated with menstruation, Unicharm aims to create educational and career opportunities for women, ultimately contributing to their social advancement.

<Related Information>

International Women's Day Official Website:    https://www.internationalwomensday.com/

Unicharm Sustainability:                                  https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/csr-eco/special01.html

Unicharm believes that these activities contribute to the following 17 goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015.

1.     No Poverty                         3.  Good Health and Well-being

4.     Quality Education               5.  Gender Equality

12.   Responsible Consumption and Production

We will continue to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs by solving environmental and social issues through our business activities, including the provision of products and services.