Background of the Study
Water supply in secondary schools is critical for maintaining hygiene, supporting educational activities, and ensuring the well-being of students. In Lafia LGA, Nasarawa State, many schools face challenges related to unreliable water levels, which can disrupt daily operations and compromise health standards. Traditional water level monitoring methods—often involving manual checks and infrequent measurements—are insufficient to guarantee a consistent supply. With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart water level monitoring systems have emerged as a viable solution to automate and continuously track water storage and distribution in real time (Ibrahim, 2023). These systems employ sensors that measure parameters such as water depth, flow rate, and quality, and transmit data to a central platform for analysis. By leveraging real-time data, school administrators can quickly detect anomalies like leakages or sudden drops in water levels, thereby enabling prompt corrective action. This proactive approach not only ensures a steady water supply but also helps in preventing wastage and reducing maintenance costs (Aminu, 2024). Moreover, IoT-based monitoring facilitates predictive maintenance; historical data trends allow for the forecasting of potential system failures, enabling timely interventions before issues escalate (Khadija, 2025). The integration of such systems in secondary schools can also enhance resource management by providing detailed reports that support better budgeting and infrastructure planning. However, several challenges remain, including high initial investment costs, the need for technical expertise, and issues related to data security and connectivity in rural areas. As these schools strive to modernize their facilities, understanding both the benefits and the limitations of smart water level monitoring becomes imperative. The present study seeks to explore the practical implications of implementing IoT-based systems in secondary schools within Lafia LGA, evaluating not only the technical performance but also the socio-economic impact on the school community. By assessing user acceptance, cost-effectiveness, and system reliability, this research aims to offer comprehensive insights into how smart water level monitoring can support sustainable water management practices in educational institutions.
Statement of the Problem
Secondary schools in Lafia LGA face recurrent challenges due to inconsistent water supply, largely attributed to outdated monitoring practices. Manual inspections are sporadic and prone to human error, often resulting in delayed detection of low water levels or leaks, which in turn causes disruptions in academic and extracurricular activities (Olayinka, 2023). Although IoT-based smart water level monitoring systems promise real-time oversight and rapid response to fluctuations, their adoption remains minimal in the region. High initial capital outlay, coupled with inadequate technical support and limited network connectivity, hinders the effective deployment of these systems (Adewale, 2024). Furthermore, concerns regarding the security of transmitted data and the durability of sensors in harsh environmental conditions add to the complexity of implementation. School administrators are often reluctant to invest in technology without clear evidence of its reliability and cost-effectiveness. In addition, the lack of localized studies on the operational challenges and benefits of such systems leaves decision-makers without concrete data to support policy shifts. Without timely detection and response to water level changes, schools risk prolonged periods of water shortage or damage to infrastructure, adversely affecting student health and academic performance. The present study addresses these issues by investigating the performance, economic feasibility, and user acceptance of IoT-based water level monitoring systems in secondary schools in Lafia LGA. By identifying the specific barriers to adoption and proposing targeted solutions, this research aims to bridge the gap between technology potential and practical application in resource-constrained educational environments (Bello, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of IoT-based smart water level monitoring systems in secondary schools.
To identify technical and financial challenges hindering system adoption in Lafia LGA.
To propose actionable recommendations for enhancing system performance and user acceptance.
Research Questions
How effective are IoT-based water level monitoring systems in ensuring a reliable water supply in secondary schools?
What are the primary technical and financial challenges encountered during implementation?
What strategies can be recommended to improve system reliability and adoption in Lafia LGA?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of IoT-based smart water level monitoring systems tailored for secondary schools in Lafia LGA. The findings will offer critical insights for school administrators, policymakers, and technology developers, guiding investments and strategies to improve water management practices. Enhanced monitoring can lead to reduced maintenance costs, improved resource allocation, and better educational outcomes, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient infrastructure in educational settings (Ogunleye, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to investigating IoT-based smart water level monitoring systems in secondary schools within Lafia LGA, Nasarawa State. It focuses on system performance, implementation challenges, and user acceptance. The findings may not be generalizable to other regions or types of institutions.
Definitions of Terms
IoT (Internet of Things): A network of interconnected devices that exchange data in real time.
Smart Water Level Monitoring: An automated system that continuously measures and reports water levels using sensor technology.
Secondary School: An educational institution providing education typically for students aged 12 to 18.
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