Implementation of WASH in the School (WinS) Program and the Nutritional Status of Learners

This study investigated the relationship between the implementation of the Wash in Schools (WinS) Program and the nutritional status of learners at Intavas Integrated School in the Impasugong I District, Division of Bukidnon. Anchored on Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model, the study aimed to determine the extent of WinS implementation across five components—water, sanitation, hygiene, health education, and deworming—and assess their influence on the nutritional outcomes of Grade 1 to Grade 3 learners as measured by Body Mass Index (BMI). Employing a descriptive-quantitative research design, the study involved 102 learners selected through simple random sampling. A validated structured questionnaire was used to gather data on WinS implementation, while the nutritional status of learners was categorized based on BMI classifications aligned with Department of Education guidelines. Descriptive statistics were applied to determine implementation levels, while Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to assess relationships between variables. Findings revealed that all five components of the WinS Program were implemented, with water, hygiene, health education, and deworming rated as highly implemented. Most learners (93.1%) fell within the normal BMI range. A statistically significant inverse relationship (r = -0.201, p = 0.043) was found between the overall level of WinS implementation and learners’ nutritional status, suggesting that comprehensive WASH interventions may contribute to improved nutrition outcomes. However, no significant relationships were observed when components were analyzed individually. These results support the value of integrated school-based WASH programs in improving learner health. The study recommends sustained implementation of all WinS components, stronger collaboration with health authorities, and the inclusion of nutrition education within the WinS framework.