Queen Elizabeth II Hall: A Shared Commitment to Cleanliness

By: Favour Abraham

Cleanliness has always been an integral aspect of life in female hostels, and Queen Elizabeth II Hall is no exception. Nestled within the confines of academic pursuits and personal growth, this esteemed hall of residence stands as a microcosm of both independence and shared responsibility. From time immemorial, cleanliness has been intrinsically linked to the female hostel experience. At Queen Elizabeth II Hall, the dedicated cleaners form the vanguard of this cleanliness endeavor, diligently attending to the upkeep of the hall's corridors, toilets, and bathrooms. Meanwhile, the onus of maintaining a tidy living space within their respective rooms is shared among the resident students. The communal living environment in a university hostel is akin to life in a small community, where cleanliness becomes a cornerstone of overall well-being.

Throughout history, the significance of cleanliness in ensuring a well-ordered and hygienic environment has been undeniable. Conversely, dirt remains its perennial arch-nemesis. In the absence of parental oversight, hostel residents must take ownership of cleaning their living spaces and ensuring that their beds are well-kept. The transition from the familial home to the hostel environment is, in many ways, a rite of passage that necessitates a heightened sense of personal responsibility.

Queen Elizabeth II Hall serves as both a residence and a social hub for students. It is here that lifelong friendships are forged, and intellectual debates unfold. A place of communal gatherings and shared meals, the hall is, by nature, a dynamic and vibrant space. It is imperative that these activities take place in a clean and hygienic environment to facilitate the overall well-being of the residents.

However, the state of cleanliness within the hall can vary significantly from one block to another. Different toilets and bathrooms are allocated to different occupants, each group responsible for maintaining its cleanliness. This decentralized approach inevitably leads to variations in cleanliness levels. While some blocks may be exemplars of order and hygiene, others may fall short of the mark. The differing levels of cleanliness can also impact the overall living experience within the hall.

A dirty environment can not only detract from the quality of life but also lead to health issues. The accumulation of dirt and grime can provide a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, potentially causing illnesses among residents. It is thus imperative that cleanliness be maintained at a high standard throughout the hall to safeguard the health and well-being of all occupants.

To gain a deeper insight into the prevailing sentiments regarding cleanliness within Queen Elizabeth II Hall, we spoke with several residents. Lola, a 300-level Queenite, candidly shared her perspective, stating, "The Hall is not as clean as one might hope. While there are areas that are well-maintained, others could use more attention." Nazana, also a 300-level Queenite, added, "While the cleaners are doing their best, certain areas of the hall still require more attention. Some students are not as committed to cleanliness as others, leading to issues such as sediment buildup in sinks and unhygienic toilets and bathrooms. Notably, the G and H blocks face particular challenges with dirty toilets and blocked drainages, which can lead to health issues."

A 200-level Queenite expressed a similar sentiment: "I've noticed that there are varying levels of commitment to cleanliness among the residents. While some students are diligent about keeping their spaces clean, others are not. I once had a cleaner come into my room to remind us to flush waste down the toilet, indicating that someone had neglected to do so." These testimonies underscore the variability in attitudes toward cleanliness within the hall.

Goodness, another 200-level Queenite, pointed out, "While some areas are well-maintained, others are not only dirty but also emit unpleasant odors. It's clear that the cleaners are making an effort, though." Iyanu, also a 200-level Queenite, noted, "The overall cleanliness in the hall has improved compared to last year. However, some students still misuse the toilets and bathrooms, leaving them in an unsanitary state."

Fola, a 300-level Queenite, emphasized, "On the surface, Queen's Hall may appear clean to outsiders, but as Queenites, we know that the reality is quite different. G and H blocks are prime examples of areas that require significant attention." These resident perspectives paint a vivid picture of the prevailing cleanliness landscape within Queen Elizabeth II Hall.

It is evident that cleanliness levels indeed seem to vary from one block to another, highlighting the need for a consistent commitment to cleanliness throughout Queen Elizabeth II Hall. As young women, it is expected that residents not only maintain their personal living spaces but also take ownership of shared areas. This collective responsibility ensures the comfort and well-being of all occupants and fosters a sense of community within the hall.

In conclusion, cleanliness is not merely a superficial concern within Queen Elizabeth II Hall; it is an integral part of the daily lives of its residents. The diligent cleaners and the conscientious students each play their respective roles in upholding cleanliness standards. While challenges persist, the shared commitment to cleanliness within the hall remains unwavering. As the hall continues to evolve as a place of residence and growth, the importance of cleanliness as a pillar of well-being will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of its ethos. In this shared commitment, Queen Elizabeth II Hall thrives as a place where the pursuit of academic excellence is harmoniously intertwined with the values of hygiene and community.