Students at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) have been left frustrated and appalled after the institution explained why it couldn’t accommodate unhoused scholars. As the new school year began, many students faced the harsh reality of sleeping outside the campus due to a lack of available housing. The situation has sparked widespread sympathy, with many South Africans expressing concern for the students who had traveled from various provinces, hoping for a place to stay.
In a recent series of Facebook posts, CPUT addressed the situation, explaining that all of their student residences were fully occupied. Despite ongoing protests from students calling for immediate solutions, the university outlined three main reasons for the lack of accommodation. The students, many of whom had hoped for better treatment, were left disheartened by the institution’s response.
The beginning of each academic year at CPUT has earned a reputation for being chaotic, with housing shortages and other issues frequently affecting students. However, this year, the situation has been particularly dire, leaving many with nowhere to go. While some students have sought alternative housing arrangements, the lack of support from the university has deepened feelings of neglect.
This issue has sparked a larger conversation about student accommodation and the need for universities to provide adequate resources for all students. As the outcry continues, many are calling for greater accountability and better planning to ensure that no student is left without a safe place to stay.
