Abstract
ABSTRACTThe traditionally inward focus of many higher education institutions in both the United States (US) and South Africa has often failed to address important urban issues beyond the university gates, confining most student and academic activity to the campus. Universities can create social change not just through their primary teaching and research functions, but also through the promotion of integration on and around their campuses. In addition, place-based activities that improve neighbourhoods can help to attract students and staff, as well as new businesses and services. In particular, they can foster the influx of young professionals and families seeking to help build open, safe, vibrant and diverse communities, which may represent a new model for South African socio-economic integration beyond the ‘gated’ framework. Accordingly, the University of Pretoria (UP) has sought to lead an urban renewal and social transformation project around its Hatfield campus.
Highlights
In South Africa, universities are seen by many as bastions of exclusivity
Surrounded by high fences, universities are perceived to keep students and academics in, and the rest of the community out. This physical isolation mirrors the social and financial exclusivity that prevents the majority of South Africans from accessing higher education
Place-based activities that improve neighbourhoods can help to attract students and staff, as well as new businesses and services. They can foster the influx of young professionals and families seeking to help build open, safe, vibrant and diverse communities, which may represent a new model for South African socio-economic integration beyond the ―gated‖ framework
Summary
In South Africa, universities are seen by many as bastions of exclusivity. Surrounded by high fences, universities are perceived to keep students and academics in, and the rest of the community out. The project, called the West Philadelphia Initiatives, sought to make the neighbourhood secure; create a year-round housing community, with improved job and business opportunities (including new retail, dining and entertainment destinations); foster investment in public education; and, generally, integrate the university into the urban fabric.
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