Assessment of Sustainable Mobility Patterns of University Students: Case of Cameroon

Fondzenyuy, Stephen Kome; Jackai, Isaac Ndumbe; Feudjio, Steffel Ludivin Tezong; Usami, Davide Shingo; González-Hernández, Brayan; WOUNBA, Jean François; Elambo, Nkeng George; Persia, Luca · 2024 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.3390/su16114591

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Summary

This study addresses the lack of empirical data regarding the travel behaviors of young adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), specifically focusing on university students in Cameroon. While sustainable mobility is a recognized global challenge, existing literature is heavily skewed toward high-income countries, where infrastructure and cultural contexts differ significantly. The authors aim to bridge this gap by investigating the transport mode choices, influencing factors, and barriers to sustainable mobility among students at the National Advanced School of Public Works in Yaoundé. The research seeks to provide actionable insights for university administrators and urban planners to develop effective, context-specific transportation policies. The researchers employed a mixed-methods approach centered on an online questionnaire administered via SurveyMonkey, supplemented by in-person surveys. The instrument consisted of 30 questions across five sections, covering demographics, travel characteristics, mode preferences, reasons for choice, and barriers to sustainable modes. Using Slovin’s formula, the target sample size was determined to be 334; however, 425 responses were collected. After data cleaning, 360 valid student responses were retained for analysis (staff responses were excluded due to low numbers). Statistical analyses were conducted using Excel, R, and SPSS, employing chi-squared tests to examine associations between demographics and barriers, Mann–Whitney U tests to assess gender differences in barrier perceptions, K-means cluster analysis to identify distinct student groups, and multinomial logistic regression to determine significant predictors of mode choice. The findings reveal that moto-taxis are the most prevalent mode of transport, followed by taxis and walking, while buses and bicycles are scarcely used due to limited availability. Most students utilize multiple modes for commuting. Accessibility, vehicle speed, and flexibility were identified as the primary drivers for mode selection, whereas safety and security were lower priorities. Multinomial logistic regression indicated that driver’s license possession, safety perceptions, speed, and proximity are significant predictors of choice. Demographic factors influenced preferences, with distinct clusters emerging based on age, income, and gender. Barriers to public transport included long waiting times and congestion, while active mobility was hindered by distance, poor infrastructure, and weather conditions. Despite these barriers, approximately 80% of respondents expressed a willingness to change their current transport mode if conditions improved. Public transport was valued for affordability and reduced travel time, while active modes were preferred for cost savings and health benefits. The study concludes that promoting sustainable mobility in this context requires targeted interventions, including the encouragement of active modes, the development of mass transport systems, and awareness campaigns among students and staff. The results highlight the critical need for context-specific research in LMICs, as findings from high-income countries are not directly applicable due to infrastructural and cultural differences. By identifying specific barriers and motivators, the study provides a foundation for designing equitable and effective transport policies that address the unique mobility challenges faced by university students in Cameroon.

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