Relationship between Improved School Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SWASH) Facilities and Pupils’ Learning Quality in Public Primary Schools in Meatu District, Simiyu-Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examined the relationship between improved school water, sanitation, and hygiene (SWASH) facilities and pupils’ learning quality in public primary schools in Meatu district, Simiyu region, Tanzania. The study was guided ecological systems theory which was developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner in 1979. The study adopted a quantitative approach using a descriptive survey design. From a target population of 80,999, a sample of 230 respondents was selected which included 97 teachers and 133 pupils were selected through stratified and simple random sampling. The sample size for teachers and pupils was determined using Yamane’s formula (1967). The proportional distribution of participants per school was determined using Bowley’s formula, resulting in detailed sample sizes for teachers and pupils across 13 schools. Data collection instruments included questionnaires and structured observations, with reliability coefficients of 0.7 for pupils’ and 0.9 for teachers’ questionnaires. Data were analyzed using with descriptive statistics, frequency and tables with the help of SPSS version 26. The results revealed that improved SWASH facilities showed a strong positive correlation with quality learning (r = .643, p < .01) and a moderate correlation with pupils’ attendance and learning experiences (r = .248, p = .004). This indicates that better water, sanitation, and hygiene significantly enhance both attendance and academic outcomes in primary schools. The study concluded that improved SWASH facilities are essential for supporting consistent pupil attendance and quality learning in public primary schools. The study recommended that schools provide clean, well-maintained, and gender-sensitive sanitation facilities, along with safe drinking water and hygiene education. It also urged stronger collaboration with communities and stakeholders to ensure sustained improvements and broader educational support.