As the University of Cape Town (UCT) prepares for the upcoming academic year, a significant number of students find themselves without proper accommodation, compelling them to seek refuge in lecture halls and the offices of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC). This pressing issue has ignited widespread frustration and criticism directed at the university’s administration for its perceived failure to address the housing crisis adequately.
In a statement released on 3 February 2025, the SRC condemned the university’s administration, stating: “Many students are without accommodation and are forced to sleep in lecture rooms and even SRC offices while the university fails to provide adequate housing and support for its students.”
The housing shortage at UCT is not a new phenomenon. In previous years, similar protests and grievances have arisen, highlighting a persistent issue that has yet to be resolved. The recurring nature of this problem underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to ensure that all students have access to safe and adequate housing.
The SRC has been vocal in its demands, calling for immediate action from the university to address the accommodation crisis. They have also criticized the administration for creating what they describe as a hostile environment for students seeking assistance. The lack of available housing has forced many students into overcrowded or makeshift living arrangements, which are far from conducive to academic success.
The university’s administration has acknowledged the housing challenges but has yet to provide a concrete plan to resolve the issue. As the situation develops, students and stakeholders alike are calling for urgent action to ensure that all students have access to safe and adequate housing, allowing them to focus on their studies without the added burden of housing insecurity.
