The Impacts of Waste Management Practices on Environmental and Social Well-being in Secondary Schools of Musanze District, Rwanda

This study explored the Impacts of Waste Management Practices on Environment and Social Well-being in Secondary Schools with a focus on selected schools in Musanze District. The study aimed to examine the types of waste generated in secondary schools, assess the methods used to manage this waste, analyze the environmental and social impacts resulting from these practices and identify the challenges faced by secondary schools in implementing effective waste management practices. A mixed-methods approach and tools were used, combining a survey with questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions with students, teachers, administrators and local authorities. The findings revealed that the most common types of waste generated include paper, plastic, food remains, and sanitary waste. Regarding management methods, the study found that most schools rely on basic practices such as open burning and dumping, with limited segregation, recycling, or proper disposal systems in place. On environmental impacts, it was observed that poor waste handling contributes to pollution, unpleasant odours, and blockage of drainage systems, negatively affecting the school environment and surrounding communities. In terms of social well-being, the study found that improper waste management exposes students and staff to health risks, reduces school cleanliness, and contributes to absenteeism, especially among female students due to poor sanitary disposal. The challenges to effective waste management practices include lack of awareness and education on waste management among students, inadequate waste disposal facilities and low involvement of stakeholders in waste management. The study concludes that waste management practices in secondary schools are inadequate and contribute significantly to environmental degradation and social challenges. It recommends increased awareness, training on proper waste handling, provision of bins, and stronger involvement of school administrators and local authorities to improve overall waste management and enhance both environmental and social well-being in schools.