The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s newly-built student residence that is set to accommodate students in 2025 is aimed at alleviating the shortage of student accommodation and further bolstering the institution’s accommodation capacity.
The construction of student accommodation also makes a positive contribution to the University’s student experience goals by providing housing for a vast and diverse population of students to ensure conducive living and learning spaces.
Located on the University’s Howard College campus within walking distance of lecture venues, the four-storey building has been meticulously designed to include the latest facilities to ensure they are in line with other top universities and fully service students’ needs.
Construction of the residence, which began in February this year, is funded by the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the Department of Higher Education and Training, reflecting the institution’s commitment to improving the student experience by providing world-class residential facilities. This significant project comes with a budget of about R42 350 207.35 (including VAT).
Managed by the University’s Institutional Planning and Governance Division under the leadership of Executive Director Mr Kishore Gobardan, the professional team for this project is led by UKZN’s Infrastructure Planning and Projects Manager, Mr Zukiso Boyce and Project Manager, Mrs Nosihe Ngcobo, working with Thembakele Consulting Engineers and Msimang Coetzee Architects.
Ngcobo said the residence is a significant investment in the University’s infrastructure and will assist in accommodating an increased number of students on campus. She added that the residence and architectural structure are in line with recently-built university-wide residences, which follow a standard prototype. This ensures continuity in design while maintaining the high standard expected of student accommodation.
Facilities include a double-storey flat for the warden, a guard house and a refuse yard. “Each floor will have 13 double rooms, an entrance lobby, a foyer, and a fire escape. The students will have access to a TV room, study rooms with built-in joinery fittings, ablutions, showers and a laundry area,” said Ngcobo. These facilities will enhance their living experience and provide functional social spaces to interact and thrive.
Completion is planned for April 2025, with the residence set to open its doors in the second semester, accommodating 104 first-year students. This will provide ample time for for the final touches and ensure that all facilities are fully operational.
Corporate Relations Executive Director, Ms Normah Zondo said, “The construction of the state-of-art, modern residence aligns perfectly with UKZN’s new strategic vision to elevate our brand to the highest level where it rightfully belongs, inspiring greatness in everything we do as a University of choice in South Africa. The project demonstrates our commitment to our students’ well-being and reflects how seriously we consider their needs while they are part of our community. Residences are truly a home away from home, and we are determined to maintain that atmosphere.
“As a highly ranked institution globally, UKZN is expected to uphold the highest standard, and projects like this are a testament to our commitment to excellence, ensuring that we remain in the top league of universities worldwide,” added Zondo.
Looking ahead to the completion of the residence and the arrival of its first cohort of students in the new year, the University has emphasised the importance of student engagement in maintaining the facility. They will be encouraged to respect their living environment and take an active role in its upkeep.
Speaking on behalf of the construction team, Ngcobo emphasised the need for students to take responsibility for the residence, just as they would for their homes. “It’s crucial that each student plays his/her part in the care of the space and that they hold one another accountable for its maintenance.”
The professional team of contractors and consultants includes:
