Water and sanitation problems in selected schools in Ibadan, Nigeria

The poor state of water and sanitation facilities in schools in Nigeria particularly those studied in Ibadan is one of the major factors for the declining health and reduced productivity among children of school age. This study assessed the state of water and sanitation facilities in schools and determined their health correlates. The study was a descriptive cross sectional survey. Eight Secondary schools located in Ibadan metropolis with average population not less than 500 students per school were selected randomly for the study. A total of 400 questionnaires (50 in each school) were administered to respondents drawn from all the participating schools. In addition observational checklist was used. Results show 60% of the respondents use well water in their various school premises. In most of these schools the number of this water facility was limited to one as reported by 100% of the respondents at OAHS. Majority of the respondents 39(78%) reported that it takes about 5minutes walk to access the facility. Majority 49(98%) especially at OAHS reported that the water was used mainly for cleaning in the school premises. Pit latrine was the major excreta disposal facility used according to 100%, 100%, 100%, 90%, 98%, 76.6% respondents for BPA, IGS, BOHS, OAHS, ACGS and ABHS respectively. The major water and sanitation related ailments reported in the schools apart from malaria were diarrhea and worm infestation. The study indicates that water and sanitation facilities are inadequate in schools. There is a need for such facilities to be provided and upgraded; hygiene improved in order to minimize health risks amongst pupils in schools.