AN ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY OF GREEN SPACES IN THE VARIOUS FACULTIES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN, UGBOWO CAMPUS.

ABSTRACT

There are many studies which suggest that our environment should include more than just splendid buildings. It should include green spaces and the quality of these green spaces significantly contributes to the individual’s satisfaction and well-being. This study examines the quality of green spaces in the 15 faculties of the University of Benin, Ugbowo campus. This study used qualitative and quantitative research methods to assess the quality of the faculties’ green spaces. An extensive review and a critical analysis of relevant literature informed this study. Questionnaires were used to collect relevant information from One hundred and seventy-eight (178) students drawn from the fifteen (15) faculties and the collected data will be analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings show users perceive green spaces and quality green spaces differently. For instance, some faculties that were bad in the landscape accessory elements were good based on sensorial effects on the users. But from studies, we see that these two work hand in hand for a good quality green space and for continuous use of that space. Nine (9) Faculties’ were rated “MODERATE”; one (1) faculty was rated “GOOD” and one (1) faculty was rated “BAD” based on Sensorial Effects on users. While seven (7) faculties were rated “MODERATE”; one (1) faculty was rated “GOOD” and three (3) faculties’ were rated “BAD” based on landscape accessory elements. Any well-designed green space attracts people, facilitates their activities and encourages them to spend more time when undertaking various activities. The quality of the physical features of the green space is an important aspect that improves people’s satisfaction and quality of life, promotes better use of green spaces and enhances the social, environmental and economic values of the environment. After assessing the quality of the various faculties, the following recommendations were made to improve the quality: establishment of comfortable sitting area, arrangement of green space for group and different use; improve and increase the number of lighting elements, change of ground covering material, increase in the number of rubbish bins, the establishment of elements for shade and cover from the rain, regular maintenance, use of aesthetic materials in the arrangement, provision of facilities for the disabled, the establishment of commercial units (canteen, café), arrangement of activity areas and establishment of walkways. The school authorities should implement these to increase the general quality of the green spaces and increase their usage