The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has expanded its student accommodation capacity ahead of the 2026 academic year, adding over 5,000 new bed spaces. The expansion increases on-campus housing to more than 16,000 beds, marking one of the largest growths in student accommodation at a South African public university in recent years.
UWC spokesperson Gasant Abarder said the development would make a meaningful difference for students.
“The demand for student accommodation will always outstrip supply, but we can now accommodate 76% of our students in university-approved or owned residences, whether university-owned or private,” Abarder explained.
He added that the expansion provides crucial support for students from rural areas.
“For a student coming from a rural area, coming to study at UWC, there is now a place away from home, ‘a home away from home’. This is significant for ensuring students have the environment they need to focus on their studies.”
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