Pattern of Water Consumption among Students in Cross River University, Calabar Campus, Nigeria

Abstract

The study analysed the pattern of water consumption among students in Cross River University, Calabar Campus, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examine the extent and ways water is consumed. Data for the study were obtained using interviews, observations and questionnaire.in eliciting data. A total of 300 copies of questionnaire were distributed in the residential hostels.  In order to have a general impression of the situation under investigation, 150 copies of questionnaire were distributed in male hostels and same were distributed in female hostels. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, simple percentages and means. A 5-point likert scale was used in understanding the level in which certain variables contribute in water consumption in the study area. The study noted that water consumption was significantly influenced by gender and age. For instance, the study highlighted that females consumed larger water quantity than males. Equally, students within the ages of 18 years and 25 years constitute larger percentage of water consumers. It was also noted that water consumption among students in the hostels was influenced by particular periods of the day. For instance, the quantity of water consumed in the morning was observed to be higher than in other periods of the day. Furthermore, bathing account for the largest quantity of water consumption while drinking constitute the least. Based on the above observations, it was suggested that the quality of water that is supplied for consumption be improved so as to allow students to drink. Finally, should be supplied at required quantity and regularly. Keywords; Hostels, school environment, quantity/quality of water, water demand, water supply,