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

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 2 nd 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.