Integrating sustainable urban development and student housing to enhance urban social welfare (case study: Ho Chi Minh City)

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest urban center, is experiencing rapid urbanization, which, combined with a growing student population, has led to an increased demand for student housing. This study aims to assess the current state of student housing in Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on the gap between housing supply and demand in the context of the city’s urban development and sustainability goals.METHODS: A mixed-methods approach was utilized to analyze the student housing landscape in Ho Chi Minh City. Qualitative data were obtained through secondary document analysis, including a review of scholarly articles, government reports, and statistical data. Quantitative data were collected via an online survey of 88 first- and second-year students at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education, designed to capture a broad range of housing experiences and preferences. This comprehensive approach allowed for a thorough understanding of the needs and challenges associated with student housing in the city.FINDINGS: The analysis revealed that 51.1% of students preferred renting rooms, while 48.9% chose to stay in university dormitories. A significant portion of students (44.3%) spent less than 1 million VND per month on housing, often sharing with 2-4 roommates to reduce costs. The survey indicated that students primarily relied on social media (61.4%) and referrals (53.4%) for finding housing. Issues of security and safety were highlighted, with only 45.5% of dormitory residents and 31.8% of off-campus residents reporting satisfaction with their housing security and safety.CONCLUSION: The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in addressing the student housing shortage in Ho Chi Minh City. The study emphasizes the need to integrate sustainable practices into housing development, such as implementing green building standards and enhancing safety measures. Encouraging partnerships between universities, government bodies, and private developers is crucial for creating sustainable, affordable, and secure housing solutions that meet the needs of the growing student population amidst the city’s ongoing urban expansion.