Comparative Study on the Implementation of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Programme in Public and Private Secondary Schools in Remo Division, Ogun State

Abstract

Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are critical determinants of health and well-being. Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene practices are fundamental human needs and prerequisites for a healthy environment. This study assessed the implementation of WASH programs in public and private secondary schools in the Remo division of Ogun State, Nigeria. A comparative cross-sectional research design was employed, with data collected from 162 heads of schools across Sagamu and Ikenne Local Government Areas using a multistage sampling technique. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0. The findings revealed that the mean age of heads of public schools was 54.31 (±2.94), while that of private schools was 34.22 (±9.05). The findings of the study indicate that 81.4% of public secondary school heads demonstrate awareness of WASH, while 75.9% of private secondary school heads also show an understanding of WASH. The findings of the study indicate that 77.8% of public secondary schools have implemented a WASH program, compared to 50.0% of private secondary schools. These results highlight a stronger commitment among public secondary schools in adopting and utilizing WASH programs within the study area. Both public and private school respondents demonstrated good knowledge of WASH practices, with public school respondents showing slightly higher knowledge levels. However, the level of WASH program implementation was significantly higher in private schools, which also had more WASH facilities compared to public schools. Factors influencing WASH implementation included age group, educational qualifications (bachelor’s degree), subvention, presence of WASH committees/clubs, hygiene education, availability of handwashing facilities, religion, water sources and treatment methods, as well as the number and distribution of toilets and urinals. The study recommends that federal and state ministries of education, along with management boards, establish policies and guidelines mandating effective WASH programs and the provision of adequate facilities as criteria for secondary school accreditation. These measures will enhance WASH implementation and promote healthier school environments.