THE ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC SPACE OCCUPATION AND UTILIZATION AMONG STREET CHILDREN OF DILLA TOWN

Abstract This paper explores the everyday life experience of street children living in Dilla town. It aims to identify public areas occupied by street children and their utilization towards it. This study is unique from others by its usage of GIS application to mapping the findings of qualitative analysis. Data obtained from 50 street children by using a multi-method fieldwork, lasting for 3 weeks using focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, in depth interview, and participant observation together with cognitive participatory mapping. In order to generate spatial data the Dilla town existing at1:50,000 topographic maps and orthophoto were used. The study reveals that not all public space is open to street children. Because of their self perception and lack of socialization with the wider community, Street children tend use specific public spaces on commercial areas rather than in residential areas. Their misuse of public spaces is also hazardous for the community and themselves. Therefore the town administration and municipality should work on facilitating public sanitation services for the well being every individual and for the beauty of the town also.