Thermal Comfort and Educational Infrastructure Planning in Extreme-Heat Areas: Assessing Needs and Equipment Costs in Universities of Northern Cameroon
Abstract: This study examined university users' perceptions of thermal comfort, determined the association between measured indoor temperature and perceived thermal discomfort, and estimated equipment needs and costs in universities of Northern Cameroon, where temperatures reach 45 °C in the shade. A quantitative approach with an analytical cross-sectional survey design was adopted, complemented by in situ temperature measurements, documentary analysis of equipment costs and interviews with administrators. Data were collected from 240 students and teachers in 12 rooms. The findings showed that 80. 0 % of respondents perceived the thermal conditions as uncomfortable or very uncomfortable, with an overall mean of 3.15 (SD = 0.85). Indoor temperature was positively and moderately associated with perceived discomfort (r = .31, p 2 = .095). The study concludes that thermal discomfort is widespread and that indoor temperature is a significant but insufficient determinant of it. Integrating thermal comfort standards, prioritising low-cost passive measures and using cost per seat as a decision criterion are recommended for educational planning in extreme-heat areas.
Keywords: thermal comfort, educational planning, extreme heat, equipment costs, university
How to Cite?: Raphael Landry Abessolo Ondigui, "Thermal Comfort and Educational Infrastructure Planning in Extreme-Heat Areas: Assessing Needs and Equipment Costs in Universities of Northern Cameroon", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 803-808, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR261012075024, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR261012075024