Perception of Head Teachers on School Health Policy and Community Interaction in Primary Schools in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The success of the School Health Programme depends on the extent to which community members are aware of, and are willing to support health promotion efforts. This study was therefore designed to assess the perception and practices about school health policy and community interaction among school head teachers in primary schools in Ogun state Nigeria. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted between February and May, 2014 in Ogun State, Nigeria using a multi-stage sampling technique. Participants in the study were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, which was administered by a trained interviewer.  Data collected was analyzed using the SPSS version 20.0.  Results: A total of 360 head teachers were recruited into the study with 95% response rate. One hundred and forty eight (82.2%) of the Public and 149 (82.8%) of the Private School Head Teachers were of the opinion that advocacy to community and the parents was necessary to have an effective School Health Programme. A functional Parents-Teachers Association was found in 162 (94.4%) of the Public Schools and in 160 (94.7%) of the Private Schools. It was observed that 99 (55%) Public and 79 (43.9%) Private School Head Teachers were aware of the existence of the National Policy on School Health in Nigeria (p=0.035). Only 9 (9.1%) of Public and 17 [21.5%] of Private Head teachers had ever seen a copy of it. (p=0.020). Nine (9) Teachers claimed to have a copy of the Policy but none (0%) could produce it on demand. Conclusion: The study concludes that the level of provision of an adequate emotional climate in the school is low and that Head Teachers are not aware of the existence of the National School health Policy in Nigeria. This implies that most of the schools in Nigeria may practice the School Health Programme based on personal understanding of the Head Teacher.