NMU trying to mitigate accommodation shortage

Update

GEORGE NEWS - In response to students' accommodation challenges at the Nelson Mandela University George Campus, communications head Milisa Piko said student accommodation has been a persistent challenge for the college student population in the Garden Route District over the years.

"Nelson Mandela University’s George Campus received 2 100 accommodation applications for the 2023 academic year. The university has 626 beds within its on-campus residences, and these are fully occupied. There are an additional 857 beds available to fully funded students in accredited off-campus accommodation in George.

"In the meantime, extra houses/beds have been sourced, including 60 beds at a hotel in Oudtshoorn, 27 at a hotel in Mossel Bay and 11 in Palgrave Street in George."

Piko said to mitigate the increasing number of students in need of student accommodation, the student housing department has proactively approached and negotiated with potential landlords in and around George to avail accommodation to students.

"However, students can only be placed and admitted to such accommodation once funding has been confirmed. In the interim, Student Housing has ensured that students are offered a decent meal each day. Transport to and from the campus is also being provided via the student shuttle system."

She said the university only accredits accommodation that meets the stringent criteria in terms of room size, facilities, support services such as Wi-Fi and safety needs.

"In addition to the funding challenges, there are 90 students enrolled on extended academic programmes who are not funded for accommodation and meals by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

"The university continues to liaise with NSFAS on the plight of these students. Until such time as the institution receives further communication from NSFAS, we are unable to assist."

The cut-off date for registration at NMU George Campus is 15 March.