AN EVALUATION OF SCHOOL COMMUNITY COMPLIANCE WITH NCDC COVID-19 PREVENTION GUIDELINES IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

 This study assessed the level of compliance with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) COVID-19 prevention guidelines in educational institutions across Cross River State, Nigeria. A mixed methods approach was employed, incorporating structured observations, surveys, interviews, and facility audits. The research focused on four key areas: enforcement of physical distancing, availability and usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), provision of hygiene facilities for handwashing, and awareness of NCDC guidelines among staff. Schools were selected in two stages. In the first stage, the state was stratified into three educational zones to enhance operational logistics and economies of scale. Within each zone, 12 schools were purposefully selected to ensure representation of public, private, missionary, and unity schools. At the school level, principals, vice principals, teachers, and senior secondary school (SSS 3) students, including prefects, participated in the study. The total sample size was 600 participants, comprising 120 school Principals and Vice, 240 teachers, and 240 prefects. Findings revealed that schools generally adhered to physical distancing protocols, with appropriate classroom arrangements and signage. While sanitizers and gloves were readily provided, face masks were largely self-supplied by students and staff, although usage remained high. Handwashing stations were functional and accessible, with consistent water supply and proper supervision. Staff displayed high levels of awareness regarding the NCDC guidelines, supported by formal training and informal knowledge-sharing mechanisms. The study concludes that compliance was largely satisfactory, though minor gaps in resource provision and training updates remain. Recommendations include policy reinforcement, sustained training initiatives, and further research to explore the long-term sustainability of these practices and the rural-urban compliance disparities.