July 31, 2025

Assessment of Sanitation Facilities, Hygiene Practices and Challenges in Urban and Rural Public Primary Schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area, Delta State

Key Points

Sanitation facilities in urban public primary schools are more favorable at 57.2%, compared to 43.9% in rural schools, highlighting inequalities.
Statistical analysis shows significant differences in sanitation quality between urban and rural schools, with urban schools better resourced (t = 2.325, p < 0.021).
Multistage sampling was used to gather data from 379 participants across various schools, utilizing structured questionnaires for data collection.
The findings emphasize the urgent need for Delta State authorities to prioritize sanitation improvements in rural public primary schools.

Abstract

This study assessed sanitation facilities, hygiene practices and challenges in urban and rural public primary schools in Oshimili South local government area, Delta State. Three research questions guided the study and were correspondingly hypothesized. The design of the study was cross-sectional survey research design. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select, 234 pupils and 145 staff from the 2024/2025 academic year, resulting in a total sample of 379 participants drawn from a population of 6,204 across urban and rural schools. The instruments for data collection were 31-item structured questionnaires on 4-point modified Likert scale designed for staff and pupils by the researcher. Cronbach’s Alpha method was used to ascertain the internal consistency of items and correlation indices of 0.83 and 0.80 were obtained for staff and pupils’ questionnaires respectively. Data collected were analysed using frequency count and percentage statistics while independent sample t-test statistic was used to test the formulated hypotheses at α = 0.05. Results showed among others, that the current conditions of sanitation facilities in urban public primary schools (57.2%) are more favourable compared to rural (43.9%) schools with inadequate facilities; a statistically significant difference in the quality of sanitation facilities between rural and urban public primary schools, with urban schools being favoured (t = 2.325, p <0.021). The study recommended among others that, Delta State and Oshimili Local Governments, and school management should prioritize the provision and upgrading of sanitation facilities (toilets, water supply, waste management systems) particularly in rural public primary schools.

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