Perceived influence of COVID-19 pandemic on university students' learning and mental health in Ethiopia

Abstract

This study reports perceived influence of COVID-19 on students' learning and mental well-being. The data of 367 students were analysed using R. The linear regression model was fitted. A regression coefficient with 95% confidence interval (CI) was computed to identify factors associated with the perceived influence of COVID-19 on students' education and mental health. The mean ± standard deviation scores of perceived influence of COVID-19 on students' learning and communication for learning were 31.7 ± 6.7 and 21.6 ± 3.6, respectively. A similar number of students, 109 (29.7%) reported having depression and anxiety. Being a female student had a negative association with the effects of COVID-19 on learning, while being a rural resident had a strong positive association with both the effects of COVID-19 on learning and communication for learning. Similarly, being a social science student and in 2nd year of study were positively associated with higher history of depression and anxiety. Residing in zonal towns, district towns, and rural settings were found to have a lower prevalence of depression and anxiety. The COVID-19 placed a serious effect on students' education and mental well-being. Thus, the Ethiopian health and higher education sectors need to provide students with basic educational resources and counselling services.