An analysis of the process of planning for a university as a national development objective : a case study of the Gambia

Abstract

In exploring the relationship between physical planning and national development objectives, the thesis of this study is formulated upon the premise that planning decisions must be factored into the development process in a participatory and sustainable manner. Looking at the proposed University of The Gambia as a case study, and the approach currently being taken therein, the creation of a university is put forward as a vehicle in the development process while the process of its planning is seen as a developmental tool. Through the derivation of a planning model and the exploration of tools to assist in the planning process, it is argued that there is a fundamental need to re-conceptualize our ideas of planning, and consequently, our notions of who plans.