Spatial Distribution of Schools and Educational Access in Kano Metropolitan Area

The spatial planning of educational facilities is a core component of equitable urban development, yet significant disparities in school distribution persist across Nigerian metropolitan areas. This study examines the spatial distribution of primary and secondary schools and their accessibility to school-age populations in Kano Metropolitan Area, North West Nigeria. Using GIS-based analysis, the locations of public and private schools were mapped against 2023 population distribution estimates across eight local government areas comprising the metropolitan area. Catchment area analysis using 500-metre and 1-kilometre walking distance buffers was applied to determine the proportion of school-age children within acceptable service radii. A household survey of 210 respondents with school-age children assessed perceived barriers to school access, including distance, transportation cost, and road safety concerns. Data on school enrolment and physical capacity were sourced from the Kano State Ministry of Education. Findings are expected to reveal stark disparities, with central urban wards being overserved while newly developing peri-urban communities in Ungogo and Kumbotso lack adequate school coverage. The study examines the role of private school provision in filling gaps left by public sector underprovision. Recommendations include a spatial needs assessment to guide new school siting, school bus programs for outer wards, and enforcement of land allocation requirements for educational facilities in new residential layouts. Keywords: School distribution, Educational access, Kano, Spatial planning, GIS.