Geographic Distribution Indicators and Spatial Efficiency of Basic Education Schools in Dhat Al-Rimal Municipal Branch, Misrata, Using GIS

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the current status of basic education services in the Dhat Al-Rimal Municipal Branch of Misrata Municipality using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The evaluation was conducted through an analysis of the spatial distribution of schools and the extent to which this distribution conforms to planning standards and population density patterns. The results revealed a high concentration of population within the study area, which accommodates approximately 13% of the municipality’s population while occupying no more than 0.42% of its total area. The spatial analysis also showed considerable variation in the distribution of schools among the localities. While the Marbat locality contains six schools, the Yadar locality experiences severe overcrowding, with only two schools serving 24% of the student population. In contrast, the Hattin locality lacks schools entirely. Service area maps (500–1000 m) indicated the existence of geographical gaps in the northern, eastern, and western parts of the study area, where students are required to travel distances exceeding one kilometer to access educational services. Furthermore, the analyses of the Mean Center and Standard Distance demonstrated a southward concentration of educational services despite the increasing urban expansion toward the north. The study recommends the establishment of new schools in underserved areas and emphasizes the importance of employing Geographic Information Systems in future educational planning.