Open Defecation: A Menace at Kwara State Polytechnic

By Lanre idris mustapha

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The accessibility and functionality of toilet facilities are fundamental aspects of any educational institution, directly impacting the well-being of its students. Unfortunately, the students of Kwara State Polytechnic find themselves in the midst of a dire struggle to access adequate and functional toilet facilities. The repercussions of this challenge have led to a distressing prevalence of open defecation on campus, prompting a heartfelt call for intervention from the Kwara State Polytechnic Management and the Students' Union.

The dire state of toilet facilities within the polytechnic has left students grappling with an arduous daily struggle. The lack of accessible and well-maintained toilets creates a myriad of issues, forcing students to compromise their hygiene and endure inconvenient conditions. Unsanitary conditions, and malfunctioning facilities have become an unfortunate norm, hindering students' ability to meet their basic sanitary needs while on campus.

Due to insufficient toilet facilities, open defecation has become a distressing reality at Kwara State Polytechnic. Students, left with no viable alternatives, resort to relieving themselves in open spaces, compromising both their dignity and health. As a student of this institution, I have often found myself in the unsettling position of having to navigate the challenges of finding a suitable place for such necessities, with experiences that are not only demeaning but also detrimental to my health as I inhale the unpleasant odor.

On numerous occasions, I've had to sprint to the bushes, evoking a sense of urgency akin to being chased by a bull, highlighting the lack of convenient and hygienic options on campus. The repercussions of these experiences are not only personal but extend to the classroom facilities as well. Many classrooms have become impromptu urine junctions, where the pervasive stench hangs in the air, creating an atmosphere of impending doom.

Upon observing the IBAS complex and its environs, the prevalence of open defecation is glaring and alarming. The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated, as open defecation not only poses serious health risks to individuals but also significantly contributes to the deterioration of the overall campus environment. The current state of affairs is untenable, demanding urgent attention and concerted efforts to address the sanitary crisis at Kwara State Polytechnic.

The students' plea for intervention is not merely a call for improved infrastructure; it is an impassioned cry for the restoration of our basic human rights and dignity. The management of Kwara State Polytechnic and the Students' Union are implored to recognize the urgency of this matter and take decisive action to rectify the deplorable state of toilet facilities on campus.

To address this issue effectively, the Kwara State Polytechnic Management must prioritize infrastructure development. Swift and strategic investment in the construction and maintenance of well-equipped toilet facilities is essential to alleviate the students' plight. These facilities should be strategically placed across the campus, ensuring easy accessibility for all students and eliminating the need for resorting to open defecation.

In my investigation into these concerns, it has become evident that the limited public toilet facilities on the campus lack proper maintenance, potentially contributing to their closure. To address this issue, I propose the hiring of caretakers responsible for ensuring the hygiene and sanitation of these facilities. While students may need to pay a nominal fee for access, this could serve as a source of revenue for the Students' Union and contribute to the ongoing maintenance of the facilities.

Simultaneously, the Students' Union plays a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and well-being of the student body. It is imperative for the union to actively engage with the management, articulating the concerns of the students and championing the cause for improved sanitation facilities. Collaborative efforts between the management and the Students' Union can pave the way for effective solutions and lasting change.

Moreover, raising awareness among students about proper hygiene practices and the consequences of open defecation is crucial. Educational programs, workshops, and campaigns led by the Students' Union can contribute to fostering a sense of responsibility and collective commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy campus environment.

In conclusion, the struggle of Kwara State Polytechnic students to access adequate toilet facilities is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The lack of functioning facilities has driven students to resort to open defecation, compromising their well-being and dignity. It is incumbent upon the polytechnic management and the Students' Union to collaborate in addressing this crisis, prioritizing infrastructure development, and championing the cause for improved sanitation facilities. Only through collective efforts can the students' plight be alleviated, creating a conducive and healthy learning environment for all.