A Comparative Study of Students’ Knowledge of Water Sources and Sanitation Facilities among Selected Secondary Schools within Kanungu and Wakiso Districts in Uganda

September 18, 2025

Atuhaire Privah – Department of Environmental Management, Makerere University

Joseph Obua – School of Forestry Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Makerere University

Nassanga Linda Goretti – School of Journalism and Communication, Makerere University

Frank Beeza Ahimbisibwe – Faculty of Management Science, Mbarara University of Science and Technology

Abstract: Inequality in access to water sources and sanitation facilities remains one of the barriers among schools in Uganda. Since there are not many studies on this development agenda, particularly when it comes to quality of water sources and sanitation facilities in rural and urban secondary schools, our findings are crucial because they add to the body of knowledge that could be used to track progress in secondary schools. This paper investigated the accessibility of water sources and sanitation facilities among selected secondary schools in Kanungu and Wakiso districts. A comparative research design and mixed method methods approach was used. Questionnaires and interviews guide were used to collect data. Validity was determined using Cronbach alpha. Data were analyzed using SPPS version 29.0, findings presented using percentages and frequencies while qualitative data was reported in narrative. The study found that 87.7% of the students in Kanungu reported that the main source of water was rainwater harvest while 89.7% through piped water in Wakiso district. 93% reported that the school never had toilets in Kanungu district while 64% in Wakiso district had toilets. 89% in Kanungu reported garbage bins for disposal of solid waste were not there while 90% in Wakiso district reported the same. This study concluded that schools need to invest in water sources and sanitation facilities to access clean water and adequate sanitation facilities. Government needs to develop systems for sustainable water and sanitation facilities for secondary schools to guarantee clean environment desired for health, wellbeing and learning outcomes.