The Relationship Between Topography of Area and Accessibility to Schools Case Study: Ecole Primaire Kibande, Mugano Sector in Nyamagabe District
Authors: Philippe Hakizimana, Aime Fidele Ndayiragije Mvuyekure, Dieudonne NIYOMUGABO, Clementine UWINGABIRE
Journal: Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies (JSSHRS)
Published: 2026-05-12 · Volume 2, Issue 05, pp. 560-565
DOI: 10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E5/2026-08
Abstract
The present study assessed the relationship between topography of area and accessibility to schools. The research objectives were to analyse the geographical and topographical features surrounding Ecole Primaire (EP) Kibande, to assess the impact of topography on pupils’ attendance, enrolment rates, punctuality, and dropout levels at EP Kibande and to propose realistic and context-specific recommendations for improving educational accessibility in hilly regions like Mugano Sector. Quantitative and qualitative descriptive research design were used, and while collecting data both questionnaires and interviews were applied. The population of the study was 444 participants. The findings were presented based on the research objectives. Based on geographical and topographical features surrounding EP Kibande, the findings indicated that 96% of participants said that their houses were located in a hilly or mountainous area near EP Kibande and the terrain between their home location and EP Kibande included steep slopes or valleys. Based on the impact of topography on pupils’ attendance, enrolment rates, punctuality, and dropout levels at EP Kibande, the findings showed that 96% of participants said that the hilly terrain makes it difficult for their children to attend school regularly. Also, 99% said that their children have missed school due to difficult or unsafe routes caused by the topography. Based on the realistic and context-specific recommendations for improving educational accessibility in hilly regions like Mugano Sector, the findings showed that 99% said that improving footpaths and trails to schools would help pupils travel more safely and easily and 97% said that children-caregivers should help them to reach at school. All the research objectives were confirmed. The administration of the school through the distirct authorities was recommended to invest in rural education-access infrastructure by prioritizing the construction and maintenance of all-weather feeder roads, safe footpaths, and small bridges in hilly and hard-to-reach areas so that pupils can travel to school safely and consistently throughout the year.