Télécom SudParis, a leading engineering school dedicated to digital responsibility, recently introduced an innovative test program: menstrual absence. This initiative, not yet widespread in higher education establishments, enables female students to benefit from one day's absence per month specifically to better manage this period, whether it be fatigue, discomfort or other symptoms linked to menstruation. This leave, in addition to the 8 half-days of authorized absence per year enjoyed by all students, offers a more flexible framework that respects everyone's needs.

A simple, flexible system

Menstrual leave at Télécom SudParis is easy to use. Students can take one day of absence per month, from the 25th to the 5th, to avoid accumulating extra fatigue and make the most of this period, without having to provide any justification. The absence is registered via a dedicated online platform, where students simply report their absence times while keeping the reason confidential.

"When you wake up in pain and you know you'll have to spend the day on your feet, in PT for example, it's complicated. It's really a relief to be able to take a day off when you need it," confides one student.

Another student says:"Before, I sometimes felt like a burden to the group when I couldn't concentrate. Menstrual leave helps me not to feel guilty, and I feel much better after being able to rest."

A thoughtful, concerted approach

Prior to the introduction of this measure, a consultation was held with students. A meeting was organized by the Télécom SudParis training department to gather students' opinions on the scheme, how it was to be implemented and how it was to be announced. The aim was to ensure that there were no misunderstandings, particularly concerning the reaction of male students. Indeed, this measure is not intended to offer an advantage to women, but to restore equity by taking into account their specific needs.

"We really wanted everyone to feel comfortable with it," explains one student."The idea wasn't to create a division, but to offer students a way to take care of themselves without feeling judged."

Students use this new possibility without fear or hesitation. What's more, the nature of the absence remains confidential: neither teachers nor other students can know whether the absence is related to menstruation or some other reason. Only two members of management are informed, thus guaranteeing confidentiality and avoiding any stigmatization.

A step forward for inclusion and well-being

This test program is part of Télécom SudParis' commitment to the well-being of its students. "It's something we're not necessarily used to, but it's a real step forward," confides one student."It's a good thing that it's been put in place, even if you might wonder why it wasn't done sooner. But the main thing is to see the positive: what matters is that it now exists!"

All in all, the menstrual absence scheme at Télécom SudParis represents a major step forward in terms of inclusion and taking into account the specific realities of female students, without undermining the academic framework. Télécom SudParis is setting an example by combining respect for individual needs with values of equality and social responsibility.