Impact of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Programs on School Attendance: A Case Study of Gayaza High School

Impact of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Programs on School Attendance: A Case Study of Gayaza High School

The study examines the impact of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs on school attendance at Gayaza High School in Uganda, highlighting the importance of clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices in fostering a healthy school environment.

Despite various WASH initiatives, many Ugandan schools face inadequate facilities that negatively affect health and attendance, particularly among girls who struggle with menstrual hygiene management.

The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of WASH programs, assess
their impact on student attendance, and identify barriers to effective practices. Utilizing a cross-sectional design and stratified random sampling of 300 students, data was collected through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions.

Results indicate that positive perceptions of WASH facilities correlate with higher attendance rates, with students rating facilities as “Very Good” being 3.5 times more likely to attend regularly.

The findings reinforce the notion that effective WASH programs are essential for creating conducive learning environments, aligning with existing literature that links improved WASH conditions to enhanced educational outcomes.

The study concludes that schools should prioritize upgrading WASH infrastructure, integrate hygiene education into the curriculum, and engage communities in WASH initiatives to improve health and attendance

Key Words: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Programs