Assessment of Water, Hygiene and Sanitation Practices among Student of Dr. Abdimajid Hussein College Teachers Education in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Background: Effective personal hygiene and access to hygiene facilities are critical for preventing infectious diseases among college students. However, limited data exist on hygiene practices and infrastructure in college settings. The aim of the study was to assess student hygiene and sanitation practices, availability of hygiene facilities, and hygiene education among college students. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 150 college students to collect data on hygiene behaviors, access to hygiene materials, and perceptions of hygiene education and infrastructure. Results: Only 32.0% of students reported soap availability on campus, and 73.5% stated that handwashing stations were inadequate. While 61.9% of students always washed their hands, other hygiene practices were less frequent: 9.5% showered daily, 7.5% regularly used deodorant, and 23.8% wore clean clothes consistently. Respiratory hygiene and nail trimming were practiced by just over half of respondents. Significant barriers such as lack of time, privacy, and facilities were reported by 59.9% of students. Furthermore, 73.5% indicated a lack of hygiene education programs, and 78.9% reported that health education was not part of the curriculum. Conclusion: The study identified major gaps in hygiene infrastructure and education contributing to suboptimal hygiene behaviors among college students. Enhancing WASH facilities and integrating hygiene education into college curricula are essential steps to improve student health outcomes. Recommendations: College administrations should prioritize providing adequate hygiene facilities, incorporate hygiene education into curricula, and establish regular hygiene monitoring systems to promote healthier practices.