1Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, ASPEE College of Nutrition and Community Science, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Dantiwada-385 506, Gujarat, India.
2Department of Human Development and Family Studies, ASPEE College of Nutrition and Community Science, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Dantiwada-385 506, Gujarat, India.
*Corresponding Author: Neeta Khandelwal, Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, ASPEE College of Nutrition and Community Science, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Dantiwada-385 506, Gujarat, India. E-mail: neeta.udr@sdau.edu.in
Cleanliness and sanitation are vital for public health, environmental sustainability and social well-being. In India, initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission have improved sanitation infrastructure; however, sustained behavioral change remains a challenge. Educational institutions play a crucialrole in shaping students’ attitudes and practices regarding cleanliness, yet evidence linking attitudes to actual participation, particularly at agricultural universities, is limited.
The study was conducted at Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU), Gujarat, using a descriptive research design during 2021–22 to 2023–24. A total of 310 undergraduate and postgraduate students were selected through proportionate random sampling. Data were collected using a standardized Attitude Scale Towards Cleanliness and a structured participation questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation analysis were performed using SPSS.
Most students exhibited a moderately favorable attitude toward cleanliness and a medium level of participation. Strong agreement was observed on health, hygiene and social responsibility, while limited clarity existed regarding technical sanitation aspects. Participation was higher in organized campus activities, whereas sustained behavioral practices showed lower involvement. Socio-personal variables such as age, family type and faculty affiliation showed weak to moderate associations with attitude and participation. The findings reveal an attitude-participation gap, indicating that awareness alone does not ensure sustained cleanliness practices. Strengthening experiential learning, institutional support and student-led initiatives can enhance long-term engagement and support national sanitation goals and relevant sustainable development goals.
Attitude, Cleanliness, Participation, Sanitation, Students, Sustainable development goals, Swachh bharat mission
