Environmental Sanitation Practices Among Ebonyi State University Students
Abstract
This study aimed to assess environmental sanitation practices among students at Ebonyi State University, Nigeria, utilising a quantitative survey research design. A sample of 120 respondents, including students from various academic levels and staff, participated in the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire to gauge awareness levels, current sanitation behaviours, and factors influencing sanitation practices. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS26, employing descriptive statistics and the t-test to test three hypotheses. The main findings revealed a relatively high level of awareness (mean = 95.00) among the participants about environmental sanitation practices. Moreover, the study found that students exhibited favorable sanitation behaviours (mean = 96.75), and there were no significant differences in sanitation practices across different age groups (p > 0.05). However, the research identified the need to improve sanitation practices and awareness among university students. The conclusion of the study highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of cleanliness and responsibility on campus and promoting targeted interventions to address sanitation challenges. Based on the findings, five recommendations were proposed, including the implementation of sanitation awareness programs, providing adequate waste disposal facilities, and considering socio-economic factors when designing sanitation initiatives.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene practices is crucial for the health, well-being, and academic performance of school children (Adam et al., 2019; Ahmed et al., 2021). However, in low-cost settings, schools encounter difficulties in offering sufficient Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, resulting in potential health hazards and impediments to learning (Ana et al., 2018).
Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) play a vital role in promoting the overall health and academic performance of students in schools. Proper access to safe water ensures that students can stay hydrated throughout the day, while adequate sanitation facilities help maintain a clean and hygienic environment, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases (Adam et al., 2019). Moreover, the promotion of good hygiene practices, such as handwashing, can prevent the spread of infections and improve overall well-being.
Recognizing the significance of WASH in educational settings, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed specific standards and guidelines to ensure the provision and maintenance of adequate WASH facilities in schools (Adam et al., 2019). These standards are designed to safeguard the health of students and create a conducive learning environment. However, implementing these standards in low-cost settings poses considerable challenges.
Low-cost settings often face resource constraints and limited infrastructure, making it difficult for schools to meet the WHO’s WASH standards (Ana et al., 2018). Inadequate funding may result in the lack of proper water supply systems, functional toilets, and handwashing stations. Additionally, limited access to trained personnel for maintaining and managing WASH facilities can further exacerbate the situation. As a result, students in low-cost settings may be exposed to unhygienic conditions, leading to increased health risks and higher rates of absenteeism due to preventable illnesses.
The absence of essential WASH facilities in schools can also hinder the overall learning experience. Students may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed using unsanitary toilets or lacking access to clean water for drinking and handwashing. This discomfort can negatively impact their concentration in class, leading to decreased academic performance (Alexander et al., 2017).
In Nigeria, access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene practices in schools is a critical concern that directly affects the health and educational outcomes of students. Similar to Pakistan, primary schools in Nigeria also encounter challenges related to drinking water quality, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices, which can have significant implications for the well-being and academic performance of children.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the importance of WASH in educational settings and has developed specific standards to guide the establishment and maintenance of WASH facilities in schools (Adam et al., 2019). However, implementing these standards in Nigeria, particularly in low-cost settings, can be challenging due to resource constraints and infrastructure limitations.
In many schools in Nigeria, there is a lack of access to safe and clean drinking water. Students may have to rely on unhygienic water sources, which can lead to waterborne diseases and health problems (Ana et al., 2018). Additionally, inadequate sanitation facilities, such as malfunctioning or insufficient toilets, can result in unsanitary conditions, posing health risks and discomfort to students.
Furthermore, promoting proper hygiene practices, especially handwashing, is crucial in preventing the spread of infections and maintaining good health among students. However, the absence of handwashing stations or limited access to soap and water in schools may hinder the practice of good hygiene (Alzyood et al., 2020).
The lack of adequate WASH facilities in Nigerian schools can have adverse effects on students’ academic performance. Unhygienic conditions can lead to increased rates of absenteeism due to preventable illnesses, impacting students’ ability to attend classes regularly and concentrate on their studies (Alexander et al., 2017). Moreover, discomfort and embarrassment caused by the absence of proper sanitation facilities may affect students’ confidence and overall well-being.
In Nigeria, access to safe water and proper sanitation facilities in schools remains a pressing issue, contributing to inadequate WASH infrastructure and poor hygiene practices among students (Ana et al., 2018). The situation poses significant challenges for educational institutions and has far-reaching implications for students’ health and educational experiences.
The study conducted by Ana et al. (2018) sheds light on the water and sanitation problems faced by selected schools in Ibadan, Nigeria. The findings reveal a lack of access to clean and safe drinking water within these educational institutions, forcing students to rely on potentially contaminated water sources. This can result in waterborne diseases and negatively impact the health and well-being of students.
Moreover, inadequate sanitation facilities in schools further exacerbate the WASH challenges. The lack of functional and sufficient toilets can lead to unhygienic conditions, posing health risks to students and affecting their comfort and dignity while using these facilities. Insufficient handwashing stations and limited access to soap and water also hinder the practice of proper hygiene, contributing to the spread of infections and preventable illnesses (Alzyood et al., 2020).
The absence of adequate WASH infrastructure in Nigerian schools directly affects students’ overall learning experiences. Unsanitary conditions and the prevalence of waterborne diseases can result in increased rates of absenteeism, hindering students’ regular attendance and participation in classes (Alexander et al., 2017). Furthermore, the discomfort and health concerns arising from the lack of proper sanitation facilities may negatively impact students’ concentration and academic performance.
Addressing the water and sanitation problems in Nigerian schools requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders. Government authorities need to prioritize and allocate sufficient resources to improve WASH infrastructure in educational institutions. Investing in water supply systems, functional toilets, and handwashing stations is crucial to ensure that students have access to clean water and hygienic amenities.
In addition to infrastructure improvement, educational initiatives should be implemented to promote proper hygiene practices among students and school staff. Hygiene education programs can raise awareness about the importance of handwashing and other hygiene behaviours, fostering a culture of cleanliness and health consciousness within the school community (Alzyood et al., 2020).
Community involvement and support are also vital in addressing the WASH challenges in Nigerian schools. Local communities can play an active role in advocating for improved WASH facilities and participating in awareness campaigns to promote good hygiene practices.
Handwashing practices are particularly crucial in preventing the spread of diseases, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have emphasized the importance of handwashing knowledge, attitudes, and practices among students in different countries. For instance, a study in Saudi Arabia highlighted the need to enhance handwashing knowledge and practices among students in schools (Almoslem et al., 2021). Another study reinforced the significance of handwashing as a preventive measure during the COVID-19 pandemic (Alzyood et al., 2020).
Assessing the WASH-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices among students in various countries can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current hygiene education programs. In Nigeria, a study conducted in Ilorin assessed the sanitation facilities in primary schools and examined the students’ hygiene practices (Aremu, 2022). Understanding the gaps in sanitation facilities and hygiene practices can inform the development of targeted interventions.
In conclusion, access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene practices in schools are fundamental for promoting the health, well-being, and educational outcomes of students. However, many schools, especially in low-cost settings, face challenges in meeting the WHO’s WASH standards. Assessing the WASH situation in schools and evaluating the impact of interventions and policies can guide efforts to improve facilities and practices. Enhancing handwashing knowledge and practices is particularly crucial in preventing the spread of diseases and maintaining a healthy school environment. This study aims to contribute valuable insights to the field of WASH in schools and support evidence-based interventions for promoting the health and educational success of students.
Statement of Problem
Despite the importance of environmental sanitation and its impact on public health, there is limited research on the specific practices and behaviours of university students, particularly in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. As a result, the effectiveness of existing sanitation programs and policies targeting this specific demographic remains uncertain. Understanding the current environmental sanitation practices among Ebonyi State University students is essential for designing targeted interventions and awareness campaigns to improve sanitation and promote healthier habits.
Objectives of the Study
This study aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- To assess the level of awareness among Ebonyi State University students about environmental sanitation practices.
- To examine the current sanitation practices and behaviours of Ebonyi State University students.
- To identify the factors influencing environmental sanitation practices among Ebonyi State University students.
Research Questions
To achieve the stated objectives, the study will address the following research questions:
- What is the level of awareness among Ebonyi State University students about environmental sanitation practices?
- What are the current sanitation practices and behaviours of Ebonyi State University students?
- What factors influence environmental sanitation practices among Ebonyi State University students?
Research Hypotheses
Based on the research questions, the following null hypotheses were tested:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is no significant difference in the level of awareness among Ebonyi State University students about environmental sanitation practices across different academic levels.
- There is no significant difference in the sanitation practices and behaviours of Ebonyi State University students across different age groups.
- There is no significant relationship between socio-economic and environmental sanitation practices among Ebonyi State University students.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a significant difference in the level of awareness among Ebonyi State University students about environmental sanitation practices across different academic levels.
- There is a significant difference in the sanitation practices and behaviours of Ebonyi State University students across different age groups.
- There is a significant relationship between socio-economic factors (e.g., family income, access to amenities) and environmental sanitation practices among Ebonyi State University students.
Significance of the Study
This study’s findings will contribute significantly to the understanding of environmental sanitation practices among university students, specifically in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The research will provide valuable insights into the level of awareness, current behaviours, and factors influencing sanitation practices, which can guide the development of targeted interventions to improve environmental sanitation on university campuses.
Furthermore, the study’s results will be of interest to policymakers, university administrators, and health authorities in Nigeria. They can utilize the findings to formulate evidence-based policies and strategies aimed at enhancing sanitation practices among students and, consequently, promoting public health and sustainable development.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Ebonyi State University students as the primary research participants. The research will cover various aspects of environmental sanitation practices, including waste disposal, water and food hygiene, personal hygiene, and the use of sanitation facilities.
However, some limitations may affect the study’s findings, including time constraints, budget limitations, and potential biases in self-reported data. Moreover, the study’s results may not be entirely generalizable to other universities or broader population groups due to the specific characteristics of the selected sample.
Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and precision in the study, the following key terms will be operationally defined:
Environmental Sanitation Practices: Refers to the behaviours and actions taken by individuals to maintain a clean and healthy environment, including waste management, personal hygiene, and the use of sanitation facilities.
Awareness: Denotes the level of knowledge and understanding of environmental sanitation practices among students.
Sanitation Facilities: Includes toilets, handwashing stations, waste disposal bins, and other amenities provided for maintaining hygiene and sanitation.
University Students: Encompasses undergraduate and postgraduate students currently enrolled at Ebonyi State University.
Organization of the Study
The study will be organized into five chapters. Chapter One will provide the introduction, background, problem statement, objectives, research questions, hypotheses, significance, scope, limitations, and operational definitions of terms.
Chapter two will consist of a comprehensive review of relevant literature on environmental sanitation practices, focusing on university students and similar contexts. It will present existing theories, models, and studies related to the research topic.
Chapter three will outline the research methodology, including the research design, data collection procedures, study population, sampling technique, and data analysis methods.
Chapter four will present the data analysis and findings, interpreting the results in line with the research questions and hypotheses.
Finally, chapter five will offer a summary of the study’s key findings, conclusions drawn from the research, and recommendations for future research and practical applications.
References
- Lee, K., Rhee, T. A., Kim, J. H., & Kim, Y. (2019). School environmental conditions and student self-efficacy: A mediation model. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 407. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00407
- Lidonde, R. (2020). Factors influencing the use of sanitary facilities by pupils in public primary schools in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. Journal of Education and Practice, 11(28), 139-146.
- Mackinnon, N. J., Riera, C., & Chersich, M. (2019). Global access to handwashing: Implications for COVID-19 control in low-income countries. Environmental Health Perspectives, 127(5), 57001. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP4193
- Megunda, R. (2021). Research methods for business students (9th ed.). Pearson.
- Moe, C. L., Rheingans, R. D., & Caruso, B. A. (2020). Optimizing the benefits of improved water, sanitation, and hygiene to reduce childhood diarrhoea mortality in lower-income settings. American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 103(2_Suppl), 6-8. https://doi.org/10.4269/ajtmh.20-0030
IF YOU CAN'T FIND YOUR TOPIC, CLICK HERE TO HIRE A WRITER»
