Examining Water Use and Sanitation Practices in Rural Schools of Chegutu District, Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in schools is integral to the well-being of children and their right to quality education. The study examines water use and sanitation practices of selected rural secondary schools in Ward 11 and 29 of Chegutu District in Zimbabwe. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews and published data. A total of 81 questionnaires investigating students’ hygiene practices, as well as their perceptions on service delivery, were issued to students. Data collected were analyzed using tables, graphs, pie chart, and descriptive statistics. The study concluded that the present WASH practices in many of the schools were not adequate. The reasons for low water and sanitation coverage included lack of a comprehensive policy and government will to effectively manage water and sanitation services, which to some extent affected the capacity of local authorities and schools to manage water and sanitation supply services in the past years. Despite support by community, civic society and Government, the impact of their contributions remains significant though insufficient. Inadequate capital to support and maintain WASH standards in schools, and lack of monitoring systems remain key challenges. Further support is required to meet international recommendations for healthy and gender-equitable schools.