READING OF A WALKABLE UNIVERSITY LANDSCAPE IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

Walkable landscapes are tied to people’s perception of their environment. Walking also constitutes the most equitable means of transport because it is available to all. Studies have shown that walking has inherent benefits to the environment as well as the health benefits to the partaker. Most University campuses are characterized by large landscapes within which movements are made to connect facilities located far apart from each other. It is therefore important to understand the constituents of what makes a university campus walkable. This study therefore examined the character of a walkable campus landscape through the lens of qualitative research paradigm. Interviews were conducted (n-86) and transcribed interviews were content analyzed. The result revealed that students have a convergent view of the character of walkable university campus landscape which includes security, engaging landscape and integration of social environmental attributes along walking routes. Environmental elements like maintained walkways, greenery, and rest spots motivate walking, alongside the social aspect of companionship or solitude. A holistic approach to campus planning, integrating well-lit paths, green spaces, and social considerations, not only encourages physical activity but also addresses safety and diverse student preferences, fostering a vibrant and accommodating university environment. The findings of this research can also be applied in the planning of university landscapes.