Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Condition in Public Schools from Ten Districts of Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpaschim Province, Nepal

This paper is based on research conducted in 3,534 public schools in Nepal's Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim province. The information was gathered from public schools, both SMP and non-SMP. Questionnaires were used to collect the majority of the data. Increased access to WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in schools increases student health and efficiency. WASH services in schools are being scaled up around the world, but little is known about the state of public schools in Nepal. The survey was conducted in 10 districts in three provinces, with 3,534 public schools. As envisioned by School WASH Operational Procedure, 2074, the WASH profile outlined a range of areas where priority and attention are needed for improvement. Since everyday practices in schools are open to person-to-person interaction, schools with inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions have a higher risk of illness and disease, as well as increased infection. In schools, providing proper water, sanitation, hygiene, and waste disposal has a range of benefits. This study reveals that public schools in rural areas need significant change and must encourage hardware components. Owing to a shortage of clean water and toilets in the classrooms, students do not wash their hands often. Secondary students also have poor hand washing habits and low self-esteem when it comes to maintaining hygiene and sanitation. Unsafe WASH conditions will impede students' physical and cognitive abilities. Waterborne communicable diseases can be reduced by taking simple steps to foster healthy behaviors, such as proper hand washing practices and a safe school environment. This survey is helpful in establishing the baseline status of the selected districts for potential WASH sector progress review.