DescriptionThis project applies Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to map and analyze the spatial distribution and density of primary and secondary schools in Nsukka LGA. The goal is to identify areas with limited access to educational facilities and assist planners in making data-driven decisions for equitable education provision.

Study Area

Nsukka Local Government Area is located in the northern part of Enugu State, southeastern Nigeria. It covers approximately 1,810 km² and consists of both urban and rural settlements. The region is home to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and has a growing population that necessitates proper planning of educational infrastructure.

Problem StatementDespite the expansion of education in Enugu State, many rural communities in Nsukka LGA still suffer from uneven distribution of schools, leading to poor accessibility, overcrowded classrooms, and reduced education quality.

Goal:The goal of this project is to use GIS tools to assess the spatial distribution, point density, and accessibility of schools in Nsukka LGA to:

• Identify underserved areas,

• Inform future school siting, and

• Support inclusive and equitable education planning.

  Tools and Data Used

  GIS Tools

• ArcGIS 10.8 tool

• Google Earth Pro tool (Used for Validation)

  Data Sources

  • School location data (from Humanitarian Data Exchange)

  • Administrative boundary shapefiles from OpenStreetMap, (OSM)

    Methodology

    Data Collection & Preprocessing

    1. The Coordinates of schools obtained and verified using google earth pro.

       • Administrative boundary shapefiles and roads imported into GIS.

         Spatial Distribution Mapping

       • Schools were mapped as point features in ArcGIS

       • Overlays with settlement maps and road networks performed.

       Density Analysis

       • Point Density tool: was used to visualize clustering and sparse areas of schools location.

       • Accessibility Buffering: A 1 km buffer zone was generated around schools to estimate service coverage.

         Map Production

         • Thematic maps generated for distribution, density, and service coverage.

           Project Findings

           • Spatial Clustering: High concentration of schools found in Nsukka urban center and around major road corridors.

           • Underserved Areas: Peripheral rural communities, especially toward the north and east, showed low school density and poor accessibility.

           • Inequity Highlighted: Certain densely populated areas lacked sufficient schools within walkable distance (1–2 km).

           • Recommendation Maps: Proposed locations for new schools based on gaps identified.