Abstract

The Innovation Africa@UP precinct, located on the University of Pretoria’s Hillcrest campus, represents an underutilised research landscape with immense potential for transformation. Situated in Tshwane, the site is strategically positioned near the University’s main campus and adjacent communities, hosting agricultural trials, specialised laboratories, valuable historical features and remnants of the ecologically significant Moot Grassland. Yet, rapid urbanisation and the University’s Spatial Development Plan for 2030 place increasing pressure on this land, prioritising infrastructure expansion over the preservation of ecological and agricultural systems. This creates a critical disconnect between urban development and the conservation of research landscapes, risking the loss of productive land, biodiversity and the site’s role as a living laboratory for sustainable transformation.

The design question driving this project is:

How can incorporating green infrastructure principles in the landscape design of Innovation Africa@UP uphold ecological integrity while preserving the campus objectives? 

The project envisions a campus landscape that balances development and ecological integrity, promoting student well-being while serving as an accessible agricultural research hub. Guided by principles of ecological urbanism, the precinct functions as a living laboratory where biodiversity, research, recreation and community well-being intersect.

The design strategy centres on three interconnected aims: enhancing ecosystem services, improving student well-being, and preserving and expanding research facilities. Ecosystem services are strengthened through biodiversity corridors, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and the conservation and expansion of the Moot Grassland. Ecologically sensitive recreation areas and buffer zones protect natural and agricultural landscapes, with transition zones extending the grassland character into accessible, low-impact spaces. Student well-being is supported through accessible green spaces for recreation and research, enhanced non-motorised transport networks, and an agricultural campus identity that fosters active engagement with the landscape. Finally, research facilities are preserved and expanded through the integration of green infrastructure, water harvesting, and natural filtration systems, which enhance ecological integrity, resilience, and collaboration across disciplines. 

These elements position Innovation Africa@UP as a scalable blueprint for ecological urbanism in sub-Saharan Africa while promoting student well-being, preserving and enhancing heritage and biodiversity, advancing sustainable research and enhancing the University’s role as a global leader in sustainability-driven innovation.

Keywords: Ecological urbanism, Sustainable design, Sustainable Development Goals, University of Pretoria, Agricultural Integration, Ecosystem services