Table of Contents
ABSTRACT.. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 4
INTRODUCTION.. 4
1.1 Background to the Study. 4
.. 6
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 7
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study. 10
1.10 Definition of Terms. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 14
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 14
2.1 Introduction.. 14
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 20
2.5 2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 22
CHAPTER THREE.. 23
METHODOLOGY.. 23
3.0 Introduction.. 23
3.1 Area of the study. 24
3.2 Research Design.. 24
3.3 Population for the Study. 24
3.4 Sample and Sampling Technique. 25
3.5 Research Instrument. 25
3.6 Validity of the Instrument. 25
3.7 Reliability of the Instrument. 26
3.8 Data Collection.. 26
3.9 Data Analysis. 27
CHAPTER FOUR.. 28
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 28
4.1 Preamble. 28
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 28
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 31
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 31
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 42
CHAPTER FIVE.. 46
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 46
5.1 Summary of Findings. 46
5.2 Conclusion.. 47
5.3 Recommendation.. 47
Research Questionnaire: KNOWLEDGE ATTITUDE AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS SANITATION AND HYGIENE AMONG STUDENT IN UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR (A CASE STUDY OF UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR).. 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
1.1 Background to the Study
Sanitation and hygiene are critical components of public health, and their significance extends to academic institutions where students' well-being can influence their academic performance and overall quality of life. At the University of Calabar, understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of students towards sanitation and hygiene is essential to ensure a conducive learning environment and promote health on campus. Effective sanitation and hygiene practices can prevent the spread of diseases and contribute to a healthier campus community. This introduction will outline the importance of these practices, review relevant literature, and discuss the implications of students' attitudes and perceptions.
A comprehensive study by Oladepo et al. (2020) highlighted that awareness and education about sanitation and hygiene are crucial for effective implementation of health interventions in university settings. According to their research, knowledge levels about proper sanitation practices were found to be inadequate among university students, which often leads to poor hygiene behaviors and increased risk of infections (Oladepo, O., Sani, A., & Agbede, O., 2020). Similarly, a study conducted by Olamide et al. (2022) emphasizes that students' attitudes towards sanitation practices significantly impact their adherence to recommended hygiene behaviors, pointing out that positive attitudes correlate with better sanitation outcomes (Olamide, A., Oyeleke, T., & Akinwumi, T., 2022).
Furthermore, perceptions about sanitation and hygiene can shape students' behavior and their participation in campus health programs. According to a survey by Nwankwo and Chukwu (2019), students' perceptions of the adequacy of campus sanitation facilities influenced their usage patterns and engagement in hygiene practices (Nwankwo, C., & Chukwu, J., 2019). This aligns with findings by Ijeoma et al. (2021), which indicate that students who perceive sanitation facilities as inadequate are less likely to maintain proper hygiene practices (Ijeoma, E., Ezeani, I., & Okonkwo, C., 2021).
In addition, a study by Okoye et al. (2023) found that educational interventions targeting sanitation and hygiene have led to improved knowledge and practices among university students (Okoye, I., Uche, E., & Obi, F., 2023). This suggests that tailored educational programs could effectively address gaps in knowledge and influence positive behavioral changes. Similarly, a review by Duru et al. (2022) underscores the need for continuous education and awareness campaigns to enhance students' knowledge and attitudes towards hygiene and sanitation (Duru, T., Anigbogu, M., & Nwaogu, E., 2022).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of students towards sanitation and hygiene at the University of Calabar is crucial for improving public health and creating a healthier campus environment. Preliminary observations suggest that there may be gaps in students’ knowledge about effective sanitation practices and their importance in preventing diseases. For instance, a study by Oladepo et al. (2020) highlighted that university students in Nigeria often exhibit limited knowledge regarding proper sanitation, which negatively impacts their hygiene behaviors and increases susceptibility to infections (Oladepo, O., Sani, A., & Agbede, O., 2020). This lack of awareness can undermine efforts to maintain cleanliness and health standards within the university.
Moreover, students' attitudes towards sanitation and hygiene significantly influence their actual practices and adherence to health guidelines. According to Nwankwo and Chukwu (2019), students’ perceptions of the adequacy and accessibility of sanitation facilities on campus affect their hygiene behaviors and overall sanitation practices (Nwankwo, C., & Chukwu, J., 2019). Negative attitudes or misconceptions about the importance of sanitation can lead to non-compliance with hygiene protocols, which in turn compromises the health of the entire student body and disrupts the learning environment.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Knowledge attitude and perceptions towards sanitation and hygiene among student in university of calabar. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the level of knowledge of sanitation and hygiene practices among students of the University of Calabar.
- To determine the attitudes of students towards sanitation and hygiene practices within the university environment.
- To explore the perceptions of students regarding the sanitation and hygiene facilities available on campus.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the level of knowledge among University of Calabar students regarding key sanitation and hygiene principles and practices?
- What are the attitudes of University of Calabar students towards sanitation and hygiene, and how do these attitudes influence their behaviors?
- What are the perceptions of University of Calabar students regarding the adequacy and quality of sanitation and hygiene facilities on campus?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between the students' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards sanitation and hygiene at the University of Calabar.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Public health sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to university of Calabar. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Sanitation
The practice of maintaining clean and healthy conditions through the provision of facilities and services for the safe disposal of human waste and other waste products. It involves ensuring that the environment, including living spaces and public areas, is free from contaminants that could cause health issues.
2. Hygiene
The set of practices and conditions that help maintain health and prevent the spread of diseases. This includes personal hygiene (e.g., handwashing, oral care) and environmental hygiene (e.g., cleanliness of living spaces, food safety).
3. Knowledge
In this context, knowledge refers to the awareness and understanding of students regarding the principles, practices, and importance of sanitation and hygiene. It encompasses information on how proper sanitation and hygiene practices can prevent disease and promote well-being.
4. Attitudes
Attitudes refer to the students' feelings, beliefs, and values towards sanitation and hygiene. This includes their level of commitment to maintaining cleanliness, their willingness to adopt hygienic practices, and their overall perception of the importance of sanitation in their daily lives.
5. Perceptions
Perceptions are the students’ interpretations and judgments about sanitation and hygiene practices. This includes their views on the effectiveness of current practices, the adequacy of facilities, and the overall impact of sanitation and hygiene on their health and quality of life.
6. University of Calabar
An institution of higher education located in Calabar, Nigeria. For the purposes of this study, it represents the context in which the students' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards sanitation and hygiene are being examined.
7. Student Population
The group of individuals enrolled in academic programs at the University of Calabar. In this study, this term specifically refers to the subset of students whose knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards sanitation and hygiene are being analyzed.
