QUALITIES OF THE GREEN LANDSCAPE IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS, DEFICIENCIES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR HEALTH OF THE PUPILS

Abstract

The aim of this research is to analyze and demonstrate the deficiencies and opportunities of the green landscape in primary schools, Kigali, Rwanda. Despite the recent research on significant positive effects of green spaces on public health such as mental, physical, and social, the landscape design with green elements has less taken into account as a priority in schools. The methodology of this research was based on the qualitative method by applying structured observation, photography, and site analysis techniques. The findings identify that the schools face the deficiencies to apply hardscape, softscape, and interaction of the pupils with the green spaces. Despite the open spaces in the schools for design as great opportunities, the deficiencies of hardscape, softscape, and limited accessibility of the pupils to the green spaces could influence the general health of the users.