SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION AND MALARIA PREVENTION: EXPLORING THE PLANNED BEHAVIOUR OF UNDERGRADUATES IN AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

Abstract

This study explores how undergraduates at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, engage with information on Solid Waste Management for malaria prevention. Two objectives were addressed in the study to include: To examine the attitudes of undergraduates towards solid waste management for the prevention of malaria in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. And to ascertain the constructs of the theory of planned behaviour that explains the attitudes of undergraduates towards solid waste management for the prevention of malaria in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria?A qualitative case study design was adopted, with nine purposefully selected undergraduates interviewed using semi-structured questions. Data were audiorecorded, transcribed, and analyzed through qualitative content analysis to identify recurring themes. Findings revealed that students’ SWM practices are influenced by their attitudes toward waste disposal (behavioral beliefs), perceived expectations of peers and authorities (normative beliefs), and confidence in their ability to manage waste effectively (control beliefs). . The study concludes that knowledge alone is insufficient to drive behavioral change. Instead, an integrated approach combining environmental education, infrastructural support, policy enforcement, and normative reinforcement is essential for fostering responsible SWM and reducing malaria risk on university campuses.