Analysis of hygienic and sanitary conditions in the primary schools of Kisangani in The Democratic Republic of Congo

Introduction: The health and well-being of children are fundamental elements of education, because the cleanliness of the child is no less necessary than that of the school. Indeed, active health promotion has become a priority for schools. Specifically, the study aims to analyze the hygienic and sanitary conditions in primary schools in the city of Kisangani; and to identify their repercussions on the health of pupils.

Methods: This is a descriptive study with a cross-sectional aim, based on direct observation and interview. Forty-seven schools were targeted, for which we randomly selected 10 schools that made up our sample (5 Accredited private school, 3 Approved schools and 2 Official schools) distributed in the different districts of the commune of Kabondo.

Results: It emerged that 55.0% of respondents maintain that school toilets are dirty; Using ordinary toilets (53.3%), trash can (41.3%), paper (24.7%) and brush (22.3%) are the equipment used in school toilets. Due to a lack of equipment, 38.3% never wash their hands after washing. Classrooms are cleaned three times a week (45.0%). Poor hygiene in school sanitation facilities is one of many predictors for the emergence of communicable diseases. 

Conclusion: Schools that do not have sanitation facilities, or those whose facilities are poorly maintained or used, become risk environments conducive to disease transmission. There is a need for a better hygiene and sanitation policy in schools in order to safeguard the health of schoolchildren.