Impending health crisis at Bauchi secondary school due to poor sanitation and water scarcity

A potential epidemic is looming over Community Day Secondary School, Wunti Dada, on the outskirts of Bauchi State, as poor toilet sanitation and water scarcity threaten the health of students. During a recent visit by our correspondent to the government-owned school, it was evident that the four-room toilet facility, catering to approximately 1,000 students at both Junior and Secondary levels, was in a deplorable state.

The uncovered toilet facility was surrounded by scattered excreta, emitting a nauseating odor of urine and decomposing feces, creating an environment that could lead to health hazards. The dire condition of the school’s toilets has raised concerns among students and teachers alike.

Some students, hesitant to reveal their identities, shared their distress over the unsanitary conditions. One student expressed, “I have never used any of the school’s toilets because of their bad conditions,” leading some to resort to neighboring places or even the bush during or after school hours to avoid potential health risks.

Teachers, speaking anonymously, highlighted the severe impact on both the hygiene and well-being of students. A teacher lamented, “The condition of the toilets in our school is appalling. They are not only unhygienic but also a breeding ground for various health issues,” emphasizing the challenges students face in maintaining focus on their studies.

The school principal, Bala Hassan Wunti Dada, acknowledged the urgent need for improvement in toilet facilities, stating, “Having good toilet facilities is very hygienic because if you don’t have good toilets, the health of the students and teachers is at stake.”

Parents, expressing concern about their children’s well-being, emphasized the need for authorities to prioritize the enhancement of school toilet facilities. Usman Wunti, a parent, stressed, “Our children deserve a safe and clean environment for learning. It’s time for the relevant authorities to prioritize the improvement of school toilet facilities for the well-being of our future generation.”

Research indicates that inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities contribute to school dropouts, particularly among young girls. A UN report highlighted that approximately 50 percent of schools in Nigeria lack basic water supply, sanitation, and toilet facilities, posing a significant threat to children’s education and health.

While the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) is aware of the deteriorating conditions, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) assured that renovations and construction of toilets, boreholes, and other facilities are part of the board’s action plan for the year.