Students’ Perception of Housing Quality in University-Affiliated Hostels at The Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

Housing quality plays a crucial role in shaping students’ well-being, satisfaction, and academic experience in tertiary institutions. This study examined students’ perceptions of housing quality in university-affiliated hostels at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and collected data from students residing in six selected hostels on campus. A sample of 384 respondents was determined using the Cochran formula and selected through simple random sampling. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods, including the Housing Quality Index (HQI) and the Chi-square test. Findings revealed that environmental comfort attributes, such as ventilation, natural lighting, and proximity to lecture halls, were perceived positively by students, with HQI values exceeding the overall mean of 3.43. Conversely, service-related attributes, including the affordability of accommodation, the reliability of the electricity supply, water availability, and maintenance response, were perceived as relatively inadequate. The Chi-square analysis further revealed a statistically significant association between students’ sociodemographic characteristics (gender and age) and their perceptions of housing quality. The study concludes that although the physical and environmental conditions of university-affiliated hostels at FUT Minna are generally satisfactory, deficiencies in utility services, maintenance, and affordability limit students’ overall satisfaction. It therefore recommends increased investment in utility services, strengthened maintenance systems, an affordability review, and periodic post-occupancy evaluations to enhance housing quality and students’ living and learning experiences.