Water, sanitation, and hygiene status of community schools in Nepal

ABSTRACT Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are crucial for good health, educational performance, and nutrition outcomes, and this paper evaluates the WASH status of community schools in Nepal. A quantitative research methodology was implemented to assess the WASH conditions in 96 community schools from seven provinces in Nepal. The data were collected by using the observation checklists. As per the WASH operational procedures, selected schools were classified into four categories of stars based on specific criteria: no star to three stars. Data reveals most community schools have only a basic level of WASH facilities, with critical vulnerability in disaster risk management and hygiene facilities and a notable absence of three-star ratings. Secondary and urban schools, and schools from provinces like Bagmati and Koshi, excel in WASH indicators compared to other schools and provinces. Basic and rural schools and schools from provinces like Madhesh, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim lag significantly. Strengthening WASH indicators through targeted intervention, infrastructure development, regular maintenance, behavioral change, a strong monitoring system, joint effort and collaboration, and community involvement to address disparities in WASH indicators. WASH indicators are crucial for the midday meal program, as it can significantly contribute to improving students' overall health, hygiene, and academic performance.