Integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Practices in Public Primary Schools in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the incorporation and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices in public primary schools in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, to determine their effectiveness in achieving their goals. The study used a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate the current state of wash infrastructure, policies, and instructional programmes in public primary schools. The cross-sectional study employed a multi-stage sampling approach to choose 300 pupils from various public and private schools in 11 local government areas in the Ibadan metropolitan area. Data was obtained using semi-structured questionnaires and observation methods. The inferential statistics were calculated with a confidence interval of 95%.Findings reveal that schools lack quality drinking water and inadequate sanitation infrastructure, thereby making it difficult to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals target. It also emphasize the difficulties, recommended approaches, and potential for improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programmes in line with wider sustainable development goals at the local level.  The study documented a significant degree of pupil engagement in WASH practices, surpassing 90%. This finding highlights the effectiveness of WASH practices as a strong tool for advancing the attainment of the SDGs. The study established an all-encompassing school water, sanitation, and hygiene strategy, along with practical implementation procedures, as necessary measures to implement in order to achieve significant progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals target.