Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding tobacco-free educational institution guidelines among personnel of tribal ashram schools: a cross-sectional study

Background: Tobacco use remains a major global public health challenge, with initiation commonly occurring during adolescence. School personnel significantly influence students’ health behaviors, including tobacco use. However, data on awareness and compliance with Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (TOFEI) guidelines among tribal ashram school personnel are limited. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of school personnel in tribal ashram schools regarding TOFEI guidelines and determine the prevalence of tobacco use among them. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 138 personnel working in tribal ashram schools of the Nagpur Division, Maharashtra. A prevalidated World Health Organization Global School Personnel Survey (GSPS)-India questionnaire was used. Data were analysed using SPSS v22. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied, and p≤0.05 was considered significant. Results: Most respondents were aged 40-49 years (47.8%), with 55.1% females. Teachers constituted 40.6%, clerical staff 35.5%, and caretakers 23.9%. Tobacco use was significantly higher among males (53.2%) than females (1.3%) (p<0.001). About 37.1% of male personnel reported tobacco use within school premises. Although 80% knew about tobacco-control policies, only 42% had access to training or teaching materials. Conclusions: Despite adequate awareness and positive attitudes toward tobacco control, high tobacco use among male staff especially caretakers undermine the implementation of tobacco-free norms. Strengthening policy enforcement, training, and cessation support can promote a healthier, tobacco-free educational environment.